How to Have a Happy, Healthy Summer

By Stacy SimonSummertime often means spending more time out of doors, because of longer days, sunshine, picnics, barbecues, and kids out of school.Here’s how to make the most of your summer and stay healthy, too.Be active; be coolRegular physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle in every season. The warm summer weather can make it easy to exercise outdoors and get the whole family involved. Just be sure to take some precautions so you don’t get overheated in the hot weather.Exercise in the morning or evening, when it’s likely to be cooler outdoors. If possible, exercise in shady areas. If it’s too hot to go out, work out at the gym, or walk laps or climb stairs inside an air-conditioned building.Drink plenty of water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Help your body sweat and cool down by drinking water frequently.Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to help sweat evaporate and keep you cooler. If possible, wear a light-colored, wide-brimmed hat.Involve the whole family. Physical activity is important for everyone. Take children and oldsters to the park, turn on some music and dance, or get pedometers for everyone in the family and have a friendly competition to see who can log the most steps each day.Plan an active vacation. Camping, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling are great ways to spend time in nature and get a lot of exercise. If you’re visiting a city, consider rentin...
Source: American Cancer Society :: News and Features - Category: Cancer & Oncology Tags: Diet/Exercise/Weight Sun Safety/Tanning Source Type: news