4 Ways to End Summer on a Healthier Note
Summer might be winding down, but you still have several weeks to go before returning to the structure and routine of a typical fall day. That means there’s still time to explore the great outdoors, tackle those overdue home-improvement projects and otherwise make the most of summer’s long days – and take some time for a little self-care, too.
August is National Wellness Month, so it’s a great time to establish healthy habits that help you end the season on a high note. Once you get back to school, the office or your standard routine, you may find free time harder to come by, so here are some tips for making the most of the final weeks of summer.
1. Take Advantage of In-Season Fruits and Veggies
All produce has a time when it tastes best, and certain fruits and veggies are at their peak in the summertime. Many of them, including watermelon, cucumbers, pineapple and strawberries, also serve as secondary hydration sources, so stock up on these summertime staples while they’re still in season!
Summer is also a good time to work on healthy eating habits. Find yourself mindlessly scrolling through your phone during your lunch break? Doing so may leave you feeling less full and less satisfied, and it may also make it harder for your brain to refresh so you can return to work energized afterward. Try putting the phone down and devoting your full attention to eating!
2. Be Mindful of Heat Hazards
You may have fall on the brain, but the mercury can still skyrocket during August. When it comes to exercising or walking the dog, try to get out during the morning or evening hours, before the pavement gets too hot. Ideally, try to get your workouts in outside of the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and wear sunscreen anytime you step outside. The same holds true when it comes to tackling those home-improvement or automotive projects you might be hoping to wrap up by summer’s end.
3. Minimize Exposure Risks
Many people prioritize automotive or home renovations during the summertime, but taking apart buildings or automobiles in the intense heat has health risks. It may, too, raise your risk of
asbestos exposure. Even short-term asbestos exposure has the potential to lead to lifelong health complications such as mesothelioma, which is a cancer that affects the lining or your lungs.
Mesothelioma patients often experience breathing issues and fatigue, making outdoor exercise more hazardous. Mesothelioma doctors can help determine if shortness of breath and cough are indications of too much dust inhalation – or a sign of a more serious underlying health issue.
4. Take Care of Health Screenings
Some people have less-intensive schedules during the summer months, and if you’re among them, now is the time to schedule those cancer or other health screenings you might have been putting off. You or your kids may, too, need updated shots or physicals ahead of school, sports seasons or both, so it’s a good idea to get them on the calendar before school or work gets back in full swing. A little preventative care goes a long way in terms of helping you and your loved ones guard against illness and injury, so make your appointments now and check one more item off your summertime to-do.
Summer may be on its way out, but staying healthy is always in season. By eating better, getting preventative medical care and staying aware of exposure- and heat-related hazards, you and your family can cut your risk of illness and injury and start the next season off with a happy, healthy state of mind.
