Words Dr. Marita Schauch, ND, Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre
Ahhh summer … that delicious time of year where we can throw the rule book out the window and embrace freedom. Long days, lots of time outside and the glory of summer barbecue. But that doesn’t mean you should throw out your healthy habits for the season: our bodies still need us to take care of them, no matter what season we are in.
Or maybe you dread the unstructured chaos that the kids being out of school wreaks on your routine and are desperate to find a way to keep your health momentum going.
Either way, I thought it was a good time to check in with a few ways you can keep your healthy habits going over the summer holiday.
Have Some Grace in Your Goals
It’s realistic that the season is going to bring a change to your routine, but that doesn’t mean all your habits need to go by the wayside. Keep a few “non-negotiable” habits instead of trying to maintain a perfect routine. Consistency wins over intensity, and the all or nothing mindset will kill your motivation faster than the fly zapper. Pick those two to three habits that give you the biggest impact and take them with you, to the campsite or grandma’s … wherever your summer travel takes you.
Balance Indulgence with Nutrition
There are so many opportunities for good eats in the summer season, and you don’t need to deprive yourself completely in order to keep your healthy eating going. Set yourself up for success by doing things like bringing protein snacks when out for long summer days, hydrating before coffee or alcohol, and prepping simple summer foods ahead: washed fruit, chopped veggies or grilled protein. When on the road, keep your supplements visible so you remember to take them and pack a “wellness travel kit” with electrolytes, magnesium and probiotics!
Keep it Moving, but Keep it Cool
The summer heat can leave you tempted to ditch your workouts completely, but there are plenty of great ways to work with the season to keep active! Plan your workouts for the morning or evening to beat the heat, and keep them shorter and less intense. Make sure you’re well hydrated, and take advantage of the active summer fun you can do with friends and family like beach walks, hikes, paddleboarding, biking, or swimming. Summer nights are a beautiful time for a walk after heavier meals or restaurant outings.
Protect Your Rest
The longer days and nice weather tend to bring forth the business and packed social calendar. Don’t forget to ensure you’re getting quality time to recharge.
Try to maintain a consistent wake time even if bedtime shifts later and create good sleep where possible with eye masks, fans, blackout curtains, and limiting late afternoon and evening caffeine.
Set good screen-time boundaries so summer doesn’t get scrolled away in a sea of overstimulation, and prioritize recovery days if your social calendar is packed.
Here’s to the best summer and the best YOU!
