Healthy Habits to Be Your Best Self Before Summer

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Each new season has the potential to make you even better than you were before. While many people worry about having the “perfect summer body,” healthy living means so much more than that. 

Instead, it’s better to consider sustainable activities and objectives. If you want to truly feel like your best self this summer, here are some holistic, healthy habits to kickstart the season. 

1. Eat a More Balanced Diet

It’s time to develop a healthy relationship with food. First, recognize that different kinds of food are OK. You don’t always have to stick to a salad or whole grains. Having various options, including meat and dairy, is important to get as many nutrients as possible.

Here are some ways to balance your food intake:

• Keep a stock of fruits and vegetables: Some people gravitate toward food with too many preservatives when peckish. Buy and keep your favorite fruits and vegetables in the fridge. Healthy options can sway those future food decisions.

• Shop for seasonal foods: Shopping for in-season produce helps you get the best deals at the supermarket. It also enables you to consume items you haven’t had throughout the year. For example, summer is peak season for watermelon, strawberries, bell peppers, and radishes.

• Learn how to cook more dishes: Knowing how to cook different dishes is necessary to prevent you from eating the same thing every day. Use the internet to search for recipes with your favorite proteins and greens. Follow along and create new staples. You can even practice meal-prepping techniques for weekday portions. 

Related Read: Healthy Summer Recipes to Make in 30 Minutes or Less

2. Drink Plenty of Water

Water is especially important during summertime when the heat can easily dehydrate people. Drinking more water during this season compensates for losing fluid through sweat. Women should have at least nine cups daily, although more may be needed in intense heat. You’re on the right track if you aren’t parched.

3. Take Care of Your Skin

Summer heat can dehydrate your skin, so use an intense moisturizer to combat dryness. A simple cleanser and toner combo before applying your cream or gel will ensure a fresh, clean surface. Be sure to also use lip balm throughout the day and before bed.

4. Go on More Walks Outside

Having extra vitamin D during long summer days can be a great perk. Aim for at least 10 to 30 minutes of walking daily. Just remember to add sunscreen before leaving home and stay in shaded areas if possible. Prolonged sun exposure usually leads to sunburn or UV radiation, which will damage your skin.

5. Find Ways to Be Cleaner

Cleanliness is necessary for achieving wellness. Take care of your messes at home. Don’t let dirty dishes or clothes stack up to the ceiling. Organize your belongings to ensure they’re neatly displayed and dust them regularly. 

Cleaning should extend to your office, as well. There are approximately 4,800 dirty surfaces here, including computer keyboards and refrigerator handles. Disinfect your computer and the rest of your cubicle with wipes and antiseptics. Dispose of trash to prevent bugs from sneaking into your personal space.

6. Start a Fun Fund

Summer is a time for road trips, beach visits and cold cocktails. While these are all extremely fun, they can also get a little expensive. Therefore, you should ensure your finances are at their best. Create a dedicated fund for special days.

Separating your budget for different events allows you to spend guilt-free since you have saved for it. Plus, you can ensure the money for your bills and savings remains untouched throughout the season.

7. Set Aside Reading Time

Reading isn’t everybody’s favorite cup of tea. However, the health benefits of picking up a book now and then can’t be denied. Reading can improve your memory and focus. You can also use the valuable lessons and new words from your chosen title of the week. Knowledge is power, so dedicate at least 10 minutes to reading daily.

8. Learn How to Journal

Some people find expressing their feelings in front of others too big a step. The next best thing is to put your thoughts on paper. Writing in a journal can relieve stress and improve sleep in the long run. Plus, having a record to look back to after months or years shows how far you’ve grown.

Here are some suggestions on what to journal:

• List positive affirmations: Since you’re aiming to become your best self, come up with different affirmations to aid you in your journey. Look at specific areas in your life that you want to change and write down your wishes.

• Write an observation: List something you notice about yourself each day. Having introspection can bring up points of improvement. For instance, write about your observations and how you feel about them.

• Jot down what you’re grateful for: Whether making a great sunny-side-up egg for breakfast or spending time with friends, appreciate the little things. Gratitude can expand your mind and make you realize how lucky you are.

9. Practice Going to Bed Earlier 

Build a habit of going to sleep earlier. Women are 40% more prone to insomnia than men. Address sleeping issues before they become problematic. Take fewer naps if your energy levels can persist. Practice setting an alarm to shift your body clock.

Here are some practical tips to get a good night’s rest:

• Leave your phone elsewhere: Keeping your phone beside you can cause you to scroll through social media instead of falling asleep. Put it in a closed cabinet or another room. If you have an alarm, set it to a louder volume so you can hear it despite the distance.

• Eat dinner earlier: Late dinners usually mean later nights since your body is still digesting what you ate. Aim to eat at around 6 p.m.-7 p.m. to avoid this predicament. Opt for lighter meals, too.

• Improve your sleeping arrangements: Some people can’t fall asleep because their bedrooms aren’t optimal for bedtime. Ensure you have comfortable bedding and pillows. Blackout curtains will keep your room dark.

10. Embrace Beekeeping for a Sustainable Hobby

Beekeeping is a fantastic way to connect with nature while contributing to the environment’s health. Honeybees play an essential role in pollinating plants, which supports local ecosystems and enhances the beauty of summer blooms. Plus, starting a beekeeping hobby can yield fresh, raw honey—a nutritious natural sweetener packed with antioxidants.
Here’s how to start with beekeeping:

• Research Local Beekeeping Guidelines: Many areas have rules regarding backyard beekeeping, so check with your local government to ensure compliance.
• Explore Bee Hive Kits: Beginner-friendly bee hive kits are a convenient way to get started. They typically include essential tools, hive components, and sometimes even protective gear, making it easier for newcomers to set up and maintain a hive.
• Join a Beekeeping Class: Learning from experts makes starting much easier. Look for online or community-based courses that cover essentials, including hive maintenance and bee health.

Beekeeping is more than a hobby; it’s a rewarding lifestyle that supports healthy ecosystems and promotes sustainable living.

Summertime Self-Improvement

Nailing down these healthy habits can take time. Allow yourself grace throughout the process and see what works for your self-improvement goals. Act out of kindness for yourself to make your summertime even more enjoyable.