Summer Essentials

Hi Ladies and happy summer!

Below is a list of six summer essentials to help keep you healthy:

1. Sunscreen

The number one item on our list is protecting yourself from the sun's rays. Being the active group that you all are, I highly recommend using a "kid's" formula of sunscreen, like Waterbabies, or Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch. Both protect from UVA/UVB rays and are sweat and rub-off resistant. Perfect for staying out of your eyes during a workout!

2. Staying Hydrated

With the weather being warmer, you want to make sure and keep your body well hydrated. Try glitzing up some water by adding lemon or lime slices. If you're tired of water, try the Crystal Light On the Go packets - just pop some in your purse to jazz up any water bottle. I've been on a "sun tea" kick lately. My home brew is made from the Tazo tea collection. I just put a tea bag in a glass jug filled with water, let it steep outside on my sun-filled balcony, and voila! I have an antioxidant rich drink!

How much liquid should you be drinking a day? An Institute of Medicine report indicates that women who appear to be adequately hydrated consume an average of approximately 2.7 liters (91 ounces) of total water -- from all beverages and foods -- each day. Women who are very physically active or who live in hot climates may need to consume more water. About 80 percent of people's total water comes from drinking water and beverages -- including caffeinated beverages -- and the other 20 percent is derived from food.

3. Surprises and Switch Ups

Summer is a great time to try new activities and introduce some fun into your physical activity routine. Be on the lookout for different outdoor related activities in your neighborhood. For example, through social gathering sites such as Meet Up or the Sierra Club. Or, check in with your local parks and recreation department to see what the town has got planned. Or, take a chance and try a new class at your gym, or yoga studio. You never know, you may find your new favorite activity!

4. Think like you’re 6 again!

Related to point #3, use the summer as an excuse to be out and active as much as possible! Remember when you were a kid, how summer time meant being outside playing? Rekindle some of your childhood fervor! If it’s too hot during your lunch break for a walk, wait until the evening and enjoy a sunset stroll. Or, instead of sitting out relaxing, transform your pool into your own water aerobics studio. Just move! If you’d like to be out and about and active during the day, but don’t have access to a midday shower, carry along some no rinse body wipes.

5. Shin digs

Try something new in your kitchen! Summer is the perfect time for exploring some of your local farmer’s markets and festivals! With a great selection of fresh fruit, produce and spices, you can add a new twist of refreshment for your palette, all while enjoying your community! Just beware of trying too many samples of kettle corn and baked goods.

6. Scout's Mantra
“Always be prepared.” (to facilitate your activity!) Keep a tote bag in your car or at your office stocked with shoes and socks; sunscreen, body wipes, a water bottle. So, if the impulse strikes, you’ll be ready to go out and take advantage of sum sum summer time!