Healthy Ways To Wrap Up Your Summer

Healthy Ways to Wrap Up Your Summer

Source: homewarranty.com    

For most of us, August marks the last month of summer even though fall doesn't officially begin until September 22nd. But did you know that August is also National Wellness Month? On that note, here are some ideas on healthy ways to wrap up your summer:

HEALTH LITERACY: Much of the information regarding our health can be confusing and even contradictory. Make sure to research information given to you about your health. Healthcare information changes regularly, and it’s important to stay up to date on the latest research. Ask your PCP questions about anything you don’t understand.

MENTAL WELLBEING: Like going to the dentist, addressing your mental healthcare is a vital part of your overall health. The body and the mind are inextricably linked. Mental wellbeing includes life satisfaction, optimism, self-esteem, mastery, feeling in control, having a purpose in life, and a sense of belonging and support. Professional coaching for mental wellbeing is important to overall health and achievement.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce disease and stress, improve mental health and sleep, keep bones strong and help maintain a healthy weight. It is the silver bullet of overall self-care and can help reduce the need for daily medication. As little as 20 minutes a day of exercise can result in profound health improvements.

HEALTHY EATING: The importance of healthy, “clean” eating cannot be overstated. A healthy diet helps prevent obesity and disease. There is no one size-fits-all when it comes to diet, but in general  best practices include: avoiding fast food, avoiding refined in-a-box food, avoiding sugar, carbs and soft drinks, and eating plenty of lean protein and fresh fruits and vegetables.

GOOD HYGIENE: Good hygiene helps maintain health and prevents the spread of disease. This includes: a clean living and working environment, sanitized drinking water, handwashing, food safety practices, and taking necessary measures to help prevent the spread of disease.

AVOIDING RISK: This includes: Regular doctor checkups, not using tobacco products, safe personal interactions, drinking in moderation, sun protection, using a seat belt, and wearing a helmet.

RESPONSIBLE USE OF HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS: This means using medications, supplements (which are not monitored by the FDA) and medical devices as prescribed.