The summer months can be hectic; the kids are off school and the constant pressure to look good on the beach is rife. My trick is always to keep it simple by looking after the important things first, so the rest can follow. Here are my top tips for a stressfree, healthy summer.
1. Your daily dose of happy
Sunscreen is vital to help prevent skin cancer, but it has also been proven to help slow down skin ageing. However, studies have suggested that the symptoms of SAD syndrome may be due to changing levels of vitamin D3, which may affect serotonin levels in the brain. Allow for 10 minutes of SPF-free time, to ensure that your body can absorb all that delicious vitamin D it needs for strong bones and a better mood.
2. Fire up the barbie
Summer is the perfect time to get the barbecue out and grill a healthy dinner. Protein helps you to stay fuller for longer, and therefore a generous helping of grilled, lean meat or fish, plus oodles of different veggies, can not only be a fun and sociable way to eat, but can also help you shed a few pounds, too.
3 Stay hydrated
Although a crisp glass of rosé sounds tempting on a warm day, water really is your best friend during the summer months. Of course, you can still indulge in the occasional cocktail, but it’s imperative that you double, or even treble, your water intake, so that your skin and body can stay hydrated. Plus, the extra H2O will make your skin glow and replenish your energy levels – win-win!
4. Start your day right
I love breakfast and I often impart the importance of the first meal of the day. In the summer months this is even more important, especially if it’s particularly hot. Skipping brekkie and heading into the sunshine will only lead to a higher risk of dehydration. Plus, a healthy meal first thing in the morning can jump-start your metabolism.
5. Love your summer bod
This season can sometimes evoke stress and fear, especially with constant reminders about ‘beach bodies’. But remember – EVERY body is a beach body. You don’t need to change a thing about yourself to enjoy your summer.
6. Let’s go outside
Even if you’re tempted to relax inside, take advantage of the extra sunlight this month. Whether it’s simply sitting on your doorstep with a good book, going for a walk in your local park or getting out to the coast, enjoy being in nature, because before you know it, you’ll be back in the office dreaming of next summer!
7. Your body rocks
It’s important to remind yourself how awesome your body is, and this month is the perfect time to do this. Swim, hike, laugh, run, roll down hills; stay grateful for your body and all the wonderful things it is capable of, rather than dwelling on what you wished it looked like.
8. Own it
What we wear is often an extension of our personalities, so wear whatever makes you feel good. Choose clothes that make you feel beautiful and confident. Bathe your body in things that make you feel powerful and on top of the world.
