Hooray for July! The month of independence, barbecues, and fireworks. Summer is definitely in full swing and that means pool days and plenty of time outdoors. While it's easy to soak up the sun and enjoy the warm weather, it's important to focus on your health.

In the summertime, we all want to enjoy the warm weather and bask in the sun. However, it's important to remember to take care of ourselves during these months, too. Looking to stay healthy this month? Here are some tips to help you out!

Stay hydrated

This one is important year-round, but it's especially crucial in the summertime. When we sweat, we lose water and electrolytes, so it's essential to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Make sure to carry a water bottle with you wherever you go and take breaks in the shade to cool down and drink lots of water, especially when you you're outside in the heat.

Wear sunscreen

We all know how important it is to wear sunscreen, but sometimes we forget or don't apply it properly.

Ensure you're applying sunscreen generously all over your body, including your neck, ears, and feet, with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply every two hours or more often if you're swimming or sweating.

Apply insect repellent

Summertime also means mosquito season. Not only are bites annoying, but mosquitoes can also transmit diseases like the Malaria virus and Zika virus.

To protect yourself from these pesky insects, apply an EPA-registered insect repellent to your skin and clothing. Reapply it according to the package directions or more often if you're sweating.

Check for ticks

Ticks are most active in the spring and summer months, so it's important to be on the lookout for them when you're spending time outdoors. Ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, so it's important to check your body for ticks after being in areas where they might live, such as woods or tall grass.

If you find a tick on your body, remove it immediately with tweezers.

Eat healthy

It's easy to indulge in unhealthy foods during the summer, but it's important to eat healthy to maintain your energy levels and avoid heat-related illnesses.

Focus on eating lots of fruits and vegetables, which are packed with vitamins and minerals to help you stay healthy. And, if you're going to be spending time outdoors, pack snacks and drinks that will help you stay hydrated and fueled.

Exercise caution in the heat

When the temperatures start to rise, it's important to take extra care when exercising outdoors.

Start by gradually acclimating yourself to the heat by exercising for shorter periods of time and gradually increasing the amount of time you're outside. And, make sure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

If you start to feel lightheaded, dizzy, or nauseous, stop exercising and seek shade immediately.

Stay cool

When the temperatures soar, it's important to stay cool to avoid heat-related illnesses like heat stroke.

Spend time in air-conditioned buildings, take cool showers or baths, and drink lots of fluids. And, if you have to be outside in the heat, wear loose-fitting clothing and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Check on your loved ones

In the summertime, it's important to check on elderly family members or friends who might be at risk for heat-related illnesses.

Check on them regularly to make sure they are doing well, and make sure they are staying cool and hydrated.

Stay active

It's easy to become less active in the summertime, but it's essential to stay active to maintain your health. There are plenty of ways to stay active in the summer and here are some of our favorites:

Hiking

Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are plenty of trails to choose from, so find one that's right for you and hit the trail!

Take a bike ride

One of our favorite summer activities is going for a bike ride. Not only is it a great workout, but it's also a lot of fun! So, get out there and explore your neighborhood or take a trip to the park on your bike. Don’t forget to wear a helmet!

Go for a swim

Swimming is a great way to stay cool in the summer heat and it's also a great workout. If you don't have access to a pool, try swimming in a lake or the ocean. 

Visit a farmer's market

Farmer's markets are a great place to find fresh, local, and seasonal produce.

They're also a great way to support your community and get to know the people who grow your food. Next time you're looking for some fresh fruits or vegetables, head to your local farmer's market!

Start a garden

If you're looking for a fun summer project, why not start a garden? Gardening is a great way to get outside, get some exercise, and enjoy the summer weather. Plus, you'll have fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs to enjoy all season long!

Go bowling

Bowling is a great way to have some fun and get moving. It's also a great activity for the whole family! Take a trip to your local bowling alley and see how many strikes you can rack up!

Take a trip to the beach

There's nothing quite like spending a day at the beach. Pack up your sunscreen, swimsuit, and towel and head to the nearest beach for a day of sun, sand, and surf. Stay safe at all times and never swim alone.

Exercise

Exercise is a great way to improve your health, but it's also important to enjoy the outdoors. Try exercising outdoors this summer! Take a walk or run in the park, go for a swim in the pool, or play tennis with a friend. Take advantage of the summer weather and get out there!

Get enough sleep

During the summer, there are more opportunities to stay up late and enjoy the warm weather. However, it's important to get enough sleep to stay healthy.

Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night and create a bedtime routine that will help you wind down at the end of the day.

Meditate

Summer can be a busy time with lots of social events and activities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, take some time to relax and meditate.

Meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety and is also a great way to clear your mind. So, find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and focus on your breath.

See your doctor

Summer is a great time to schedule any doctor's appointments that you may have been putting off.

It's important to stay on top of your health and get any screenings or vaccinations that you may need. This is especially important for seniors and young children.

Conclusion

July is a month full of fun, but don't forget to take care of yourself, too! Follow these tips to help you stay healthy all month long.