WELCOME TO PART 2 OF YOUR HOLISTIC SUMMER SPECIAL
SUMMER-PROOF YOUR BODY
How to summer-proof your body for maximum well-being
Now is the perfect time to check in with your physical well-being, especially if you are only just emerging from lock-down. Maybe you gave up on a fitness routine and piled on a few pounds during the past couple of months. If you are not feeling, or looking (!), at your best it is understandable and I am sure you are not alone. Below are a few things to keep in mind to give your body a well-being boost this summer.
Discover the health benefits of eating like a Greek!
The Mediterranean diet is well-known to be one of the healthiest in the world and tends to include more fish rather than relying so heavily on meat. Maybe give this a try for yourself if your food choices have not been the best recently. By eating fresh healthy food with lots of colourful fruit, veg and salad and reducing processed food you will doing your body a favour by giving it the best fuel. The added bonus is that it may help you shift a few pounds too! There are also plenty of vegan and vegetarian options as chickpeas, lentils and butter beans are commonly used. Olive oil is also an essential part of the diet and sometimes known as liquid gold and the best medicine for your body!
Drink plenty of water to keep your body healthy and avoid dehydration
Up to 60% of the human body is made up of water. It is surprising how much water we need to keep our body healthy. Around 2 litres (or roughly between 6-8 glasses) per day and probably a lot more in hot weather. Just plain water is better than fizzy drinks or fruit juice due to the amount of sugar they contain. Also avoid the temptation of taking your fluid in the form of alcohol as this will dehydrate you even more! If you are feeling sluggish and suffering from headaches try drinking more water as this may be the only thing you need.
Enjoy your coffee like an Italian this summer
Various research has shown that around 4 cups of coffee a day can be good for your heart health so if you are partial to a caffeine boost then go ahead and enjoy. If you prefer strong coffee like espresso then drink it the Italian way with a glass of water. Drinking coffee can also improve your energy levels, stimulate performance and help burn fat!
Get a vitamin D boost in the sunshine!
A good dose of sunshine will do you the world of good and give your vitamin D levels a boost. Be sensible and avoid prolonged exposure, particular at this time of the year with August being one of the hottest months. To avoid burning migrate to the shade where you can still pick up the suns rays but more safely. Sunscreen is advised but choose wisely as so many contain chemicals, some of which can be harmful and even cause hormone disruption. Check out a health store for a more natural product.
Spanish afternoon siesta
Not all Spaniards have an afternoon siesta these days but some maintain the old tradition of a quick re-charging nap in the afternoon, especially in hot temperatures. Obviously not always possible in today's busy world but sleep is so important for your body to enable it to rest and repair. Ideally you should be looking at around 8 hours per night. If you are struggling to sleep find out more here www.Lincsholisticwellness/sleep-support.com
Exercise your way to a healthier body
If you want your body to be fit and healthy then there is no escaping the exercise! This summer try to schedule in time to do some form of exercise even if just a brisk walk or go play tennis if you enjoy that. Make sure you do something to get your body moving every day. Our bodies were designed to move and a lack of exercise leads to so many health issues. If you are not fit or suffer from ill health or injury then try gentle Qi-gong exercises. If you are trying something new like running or cycling then be gentle with yourself to start with to avoid injury and remember to stretch like a cat first to warm your muscles up.
Are you missing swimming in the sea this summer?
Swimming is a whole body exercise and has many health benefits but if you can't get to the sea then obviously the local pool is an option. I wouldn't suggest wild swimming but that is up to you..! Alternatively try a soak in a sea salt bath, known for its therapeutic and healing properties, sea salt contains magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc and iron which are all needed by the body. A sea salt bath can also reduce stress and relieve sore/aching muscles or irritated skin.
Pamper your body with body brushing
Use a natural dry brush in long pressured strokes to exfoliate and massage your body. This ancient technique not only brushes away dead skin but also increases circulation and helps lymph node drainage. It also stimulates the nervous system which can make you feel invigorated after!
These are just a few things you can do to summer-proof your body and give yourself a natural well-being boost before autumn sets in. If you want suggestions of how to summer-proof your mind for maximum well-being you can find the link below!
Sharon K
Holistic Health and Wellness Coach
Reiki Master/Teacher
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Disclaimer
Information provided for general educational purposes only and not intended to replace medical advice.