Karen Best Wright, B.S., M.A., Holistic Health & Wellness Coach

Eight Tips for Summertime Wellness With winter over and spring passing, the full force of summer will soon be here. Summer can be exhilarating and an excellent time to focus on our wellness.

Tip 1: Enjoy the beauty of summer; Notice the sunrises, sunsets, and all the beautiful colors of summer. Summer is a time to let all life permeate your soul.

Tip 2: Eat fresh, healthy foods and go light on the heavy grilled meats that are often associated with summertime. Foods grown in your garden or purchased from a farmer's market are healthier than processed foods or foods fed with pesticides and added sugars.

Tip 3: Stay hydrated in severe heat. High temperatures and high humidity can cause heat exhaustion, which can result in heatstroke, also called sunstroke. Heatstroke is dangerous and can result in organ failure and even death. Older adults, infants, and those with chronic illnesses are at the highest risk. Do not count on coffee and highly caffeinated beverages for proper hydration.

Tip 4: Get your vitamin D from the sun when possible. Vitamin D can stay in the body for months. It can benefit the body even after summer has passed. Some people may still need a vitamin D supplement, but good old fashion sunshine is beneficial.

Tip 5: While getting enough sunshine is beneficial, do not get too much and get sunburned. Cover up with a hat, comfortable long sleeves, and long pants when exposed to the sun for an extended time. Cloth is safer for your skin than many sunscreens, which get absorbed into the bloodstream.

Tip 6: Protect yourself from insect bites. Mosquitoes and ant bites can ruin a beautiful summer day. Look for a natural insect repellant or make your own. Various mints and lemongrass essential oils make excellent insect repellants. Mix essential oils with a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oil. Some people can use oils in their concentrated form. Just be cautious.

Tip 7: Take the time to be physically active. When the temperatures are high, early mornings or evenings are excellent for walking or bike riding. Remember to stay hydrated.

Tip 8: Protect your skin with the right foods. Sunburn is a type of inflammation, and foods influence inflammation. Eating plenty of anti-inflammatory foods can reduce sun sensitivity. Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon, flaxseed, walnuts, and eggs help reduce inflammation. Antioxidant foods such as vegetables, berries, beans, and nuts also help reduce inflammation.

Be active, eat healthy, stay hydrated, protect your skin while getting enough sunshine, and have a great summer.