It's now officially summer and I do love the warmer and sunnier days. I wanted to share some simple routines you can introduce to look and feel good over summer. Below I share four things to begin doing to feel healthier and happier.
Eating fresher foods is a great place to start as they are full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are good for your health. You should be eating more fruit and vegetables since a diet that includes plenty of these is associated with lowering blood pressure, lessening the risk of heart disease and stroke, supporting optimum digestion and reduce sugar cravings. Plus eating these helps with weight loss.
In summer try growing your own food. It might seem intimidating initially, so keep it simple with a windowsill herb garden or even just a few pots of cherry tomatoes on a patio or ledge. Having plants to look after helps to relax the mind. Plus, you save money when you grow your own fresh produce.
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It is essential for your health to drink plenty of water every day. Drinking water helps avoid dehydration which can cause tiredness, mood swings, overheating, constipation and kidney stones. Water helps to maintain a normal temperature and to flush out waste from our body through urination and sweat. It’s also important for your body to get more water when it gets hotter.
To ensure you drink enough water during the day, you can keep a refillable water bottle with you. To flavour your water, add a slice of lemon or lime to your water or some mint leaves, adding to the taste thus encouraging you to drink more water.
The days are longer now, so rather than just sitting in front of the TV, make the most of your time by getting physically active and exercising. You can go for walks or jogs outside to help you get fitter and healthier and get some sunshine.
Going for a walk is free and can be done anywhere and anytime. It has been shown to improve your mood and is an easy yet simple approach to become more active, lose weight, and become healthy. You’ll also improve stamina, burn excess calories, and keep your heart healthier. If you are busy, go for shorter brisk walks and these will count toward your weekly exercise requirement.
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Most of us are on our phones or laptops excessively. Using electronic devices for extended periods of time through the day or later in the evening, may have a detrimental effect on sleep causing shorter sleep duration or waking up feeling tired.
Begin to establish your own relaxing and regular bedtime routine to get a good night’s rest. The hour before bed should be filled with calming activities that do not include screen-based devices.
This summer start a new routine, something that becomes part of how you’re living your daily life. It’s as simple as spending less time on gadgets, going for a walk, riding your bicycle or exploring a nearby nature trail.
Sujata Din is a Certified Health Coach and Certified Professional Cancer Coach. In this regular column for iGlobal, she offers some special insights, from useful wellness tips to recipes for creations that are not only delicious but also healthy.
*Info: Meal Planner
