Now that the sun is out and the weather is warming up, it’s time to get out and take advantage of the sunny summer weather! So this month I wanted to bring you a few suggestions of things that you can do this summer to improve your life and health.
1: Soak up the sun
Summertime is the perfect time to get some extra Vitamin D. Some research suggests that exposing 25% of your body (your arms, hands, neck, and face) to the sun can get you to the recommended daily dose of Vitamin D in 10 minutes or less during the summer months. Just remember that if you plan to spend much time in the sun, you should always wear an SPF protectant.
2: Take a walk
This ties in well with the first suggestion. When it’s cold out, you won’t feel very motivated to take walks outdoors. Now that it’s sunny and warm, it’s much more comfortable to take a quick walk around the block. Plus, it feels easier to take a walk when you aren’t all bundled up!
3: Visit your local farmers market
Who doesn’t love a farmers market? Locally-grown produce, artisan products, and the chance to enjoy the summer weather. The best part is that you’ll be snagging in-season produce grown in your own community, which means you’re getting the most nutrition and flavor out of your fruits and vegetables!
4: Plan a picnic
Sometimes as adults we forget to make joy a priority in our lives. A picnic is a fun way to get intentional about spending relaxing, joyful time outdoors, and summer is the perfect time to do it. It can be as fancy or as simple as you want. Pack a fruit and veggie tray or plan a whole themed meal. Just get out and soak up the sun while taking in the fun and joy of eating outside!
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5: Get away for the weekend
Vacations don’t always need to be a big, extravagant affair. It can be just as enjoyable to get spontaneous! Pick a destination (even if it’s the next town over, or a campground at a state park) and hit the road after work. Choose activities that allow you to really make the most of the beautiful summer weather.
6: Plant a garden
Gardening is good for the mind, the body, and the soul. It’s the perfect way to reconnect with nature. Touch the soil, nurture a plant, and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine!
You can start small with a few small flowers or herbs, then work your way up to creating a full garden once you feel comfortable with your knowledge of gardening. Once you start growing more plants, you can add in vegetables and fruits!
7: Check out local events
Community-centered outdoor events have become popular in a lot of cities and towns. Ask around and see if there are any local events that you can attend or participate in now that it’s warm out. Charity runs, festivals, outdoor concerts, bike rides, and even outdoor movie nights are great ways to connect with your community and enjoy the summer weather.
8: Watch the sunset
Can you think of anything better to do on a summer evening than sit back and watch the sunset? It’s a quiet, relaxing activity that gives you a chance to reflect on everything you are grateful for.
9: Go fishing
If you enjoy fishing, summer is a great time to get out on the water. You don’t even need to catch anything–just enjoy the peace, quiet, and contemplation.
10: Visit a beach
If you live anywhere near a beach, it’s practically a necessity to visit during the summer months. Pack a towel and some snacks and plan to spend a full day out on the beach. You can get in the water, take a nap on the beach, or read a good book. Just don’t forget sunscreen!
What do you like to do during the warm, sunny summer months? I hope this gave you some inspiration to help you make the most of the summer weather! Want more tips like this? Join the PFC3 Club and you’ll get tons more!
DAWN MCGEE
Dawn McGee is a certified and licensed Nutrition Evangelist and a long-time foodie, she focuses on both the health and joy of food as fuel for your body. She is a driving force in bringing education on healthy eating to more people through her community, my “Reclaim Your Life, One Bite at a Time” programs, and my book “365 Days of Healthy Living”. Her hope for you is that you live a life you love, without being hungry, feeling deprived, or giving up your glass
