
Sun’s out, (hot dog) buns out! When we think of summer, we think of the smell of freshly cut lawn grass, popsicles dripping down your hand, and drifting around the pool in a large, inflatable duck – just us? Even though summer gives us memories of ultimate R&R, it seems that it’s getting harder and harder to feel rested and recharged by the end of the summer months.
What’s that about?
Our friends at Virtua Health are here to help! They’ve put together this list of 7 easy ways to get some REAL rest this summer by listening to your body’s health needs, both mentally and physically.
Catch some rays
Summer is the perfect time to soak up the warmth of the sun, but make sure to do so responsibly! Spending time in the sunshine can provide your body with essential amounts of Vitamin D, but without proper sunscreen coverage, you could be putting your skin at serious risk. Once you’re protected from those dangerous UV rays, why not set up the ol’ hammock and have a nice afternoon nap? Or, take a ride to your nearest beach and set up a lounge chair for ultimate summer vibes.
Get plenty of sleep
Speaking of naps, when’s the last time you felt truly refreshed from a good sleep? The hot summer months are the perfect time to catch up on some Z’s. And you don’t have to worry about sleeping in; you can bet the sun will be right there to greet you in the morning hours!
Spend time with friends and family
Who’s on the grill? Summertime is the perfect time to be outdoors with your loved ones. Whether you take your hot dogs with mustard, ketchup, or both, a good friend will be there to support you in your decision-making. Spending time with friends and family is a wonderful way to recover from the hibernation of the winter months – even if they do have video evidence of you slipping on the water slide.
Unplug, get out, and experience nature
It can be difficult to remove yourself from a world of screens. One of the best ways to recharge your body’s battery is to reconnect with the natural world. Surrounding yourself with trees, water, and sunshine will make the stress of your day-to-day feel just a bit further away. Taking a moment to listen to the sound of wind whistling through the grass might be just what you needed to feel re-energized.
Enjoy some healthy summer meals
We’ve waited all year for fresh summer fruits and vegetables, and they’re back in full force! Filling your plate with some healthy produce, citrusy flavors, and whole grains will give your body the energy boost it needs. You can even try blending fruits and vegetables for a refreshing summer smoothie anytime during the day. The nutrients in a healthy summer meal will be the gift that keeps on giving.
Be mindful of small moments
One of the best ways to have a restful summer is to be present. That doesn’t just mean to meditate, at least in the formal sense. It means to hear the sounds of summer, take note of the smells, enjoy a beautiful sunset, feel sand under your feet, and savor each lick of ice-cream. Summer only comes around once a year, so why not enjoy it with every sense? We guarantee that making time for small moments during the summer will recharge your mental state well into the winter months.
If you’re looking for healing for your body as well as your mind, Virtua Health is here to help. Take a look at one of Virtua’s many primary care practices to get the very best in holistic care.
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