Self-improvement: 8 summer habits to stick to in every season

Every summer the beach beckons us, vacations ramp up and the weather gets real toasty. A little too toasty at times but still, we’re often sad to see it go and want to savour it for as long as possible.

Luckily, there are a few summer staples that don’t have to disappear just because the season has. There are ways to keep the summertime, or at least the healthy habits we follow during it, alive all year round. As compiled from The Huffington Post, below are a few warm-weather practices we should continue beyond the, as well.

1)Stock up on in-season produce

Eating seasonal fruits and veggies ensures your produce will taste, smell and feel its best — which in turn means you’ll enjoy eating the good stuff more (and possibly stay away from that cookie jar). Tomato season may not be forever, but with fall superfoods like pumpkins, apples and Brussels sprouts in the distance, eating in season can be just as delicious and healthy too!



2) Move more during the day

Sunny summer days may have beckoned you away from your desk, but you don’t have to go outside to move more during the work day. Try fashioning a do-it-yourself, standing desk or workstation, take meetings on the go or simply do a few laps around the office when you can. You’ll notice a difference within a few weeks.

3) Stick with sunscreen

Yes, the sun’s rays are strongest during the summer months but your skin is still exposed to them after the season is over. You likely won’t have to apply sunscreen as much or as frequently as, say, during a day at the beach, but a little protection is still a good idea. Remember: prevention is better than cure.



4) Stay hydrated

We all know it’s a smart idea to drink plenty of water but we probably tend to be a little more aware of our hydration situation during the summer, when sky-high temperatures threaten exhaustion, heatstroke and other complications. Once the season passes, you may not feel as parched but staying hydrated is still crucial to keeping your body running at its optimum level.

5) Protect against mosquitoes

Mosquito-related conditions like the West Nile and Zika viruses are no joke. Commercial insect repellants can help, as can some more natural techniques like covering exposed skin and avoiding going outside during dawn and dusk. And if bites do happen, remember not to scratch — it will only make that itch worse!

6) Wear sunglasses

Just as you protect your skin during from the sun, it is important to protect your eyes too. Without shading your peepers, you put yourself at risk for cataracts, macular degeneration and eyelid cancer.



7) Try a water workout

The indoor pool at your local gym is a great place to hang out and capture that summer spirit. According to the global health and fitness app My Fitness Pal, just 30 minutes of light to moderate lap swimming can burn over 230 calories. Less experienced swimmers can try water aerobics classes or even Aqua Zumba to really turn up the heat.

8) Stay safe at the salon

Those strappy summer sandals just wouldn’t have looked right without the perfect pedicure. But if you like the polished look year-round, take note. The tools – and even that whirlpool tub salons dip your feet in – can spread fungus, viruses and bacteria. Consider bringing your own utensils and clean them with an antiseptic solution at home.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 4^th, 2016.

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