Healthy Summer Tips

Wherever you are, it’s good to see that the days are getting longer, the nights aren’t that cold anymore, and maybe those pesky spring showers have finally come to an end. Summer is a great time of year to focus on bettering your mental and physical health – here at Fresh Start, we’re all about practicing healthy routines that enforce good habits and help put our bad health habits behind us. Here are some great new habits to get into this summer!

1. Hiking

There is nothing healthier for the mind and body than taking a nice, long walk. Maybe you live in a big city or just don’t have access to a big mountain near you, or maybe you’re not really in shape to tackle 20 miles in the same day. That’s totally fine! If you can’t find a nature reserve somewhere away from the noise to find some peace and quiet and stretch your legs, even a park in the middle of a city will do just fine.

2. 5 Rhythms Dancing

This isn’t dancing the way you’re picturing it. What’s cool about 5 Rhythms is that you don’t need to have experience dancing. There’s no right way or wrong way to do it. People young and old, fit and out of shape, men and women do it. It’s a judgement-free space where you let your body move the way it wants to. There are 5 Rhythms communities all over the world; to learn more about what it’s like to dance 5 Rhythms, click here.

3. Swimming

Whether the nearest body of water to you is the Pacific Ocean or maybe the community pool, there are numerous benefits to swimming. Research shows that swimming alleviates mental wellbeing, lowers stress, and leave you feeling more energetic. Not to mention, it’s a great exercise for strengthening your body – you can burn between 200 and 350 calories per half hour. If you’re lucky enough to live near the ocean, consider taking up water sports such as surfing or boogie boarding, which are both wonderful for the body and mind.

4. Yoga

If the thought of walking into a fancy yoga studio and being embarrassed by super-toned people with the flexibility of rubber bands is a bit intimidating, there’s no rule saying you have to practice this ancient mental and physical exercise with anyone else. You can find a quiet spot in your local park, backyard, living room, or beach and put down a mat and practice your moves. If you’re new to yoga, here’s a great yoga guide to help you figure out where to start, what poses are most comfortable for you, and how to slowly build your physical and mental strength.

Good luck!