10 Ways To Be Healthy This Summer

Summer in Pocatello means so many wonderful things. Days spent hiking in the mountains, playing in the Wellness Complex and loads of outdoor activities. But summer can also mean many temptations that can sabotage your healthy lifestyle.  If you’re tempted to stay inside in air conditioning or indulge in ice cream every day, check out these tips to be healthy this summer.

1. Make sure to get Fresh Produce. Pocatello may be the land of potatoes, but eating delightful fruits such as blueberries, cherries and zucchini, you can fill your plate with a rainbow of colorful, fresh produce.
2. Take a walk outside. Outdoor walking paths and hiking trails are plentiful around the Pocatello Area. Be sure to bring the entire family to keep them healthy all while enjoying nature. You can a clock up to a few miles on Pocatello’s trails. Your heart will thank you!
3. Have fruit for dessert. It’s very easy to indulge in a cold ice cream sundae—who doesn’t love ice cream?! But save these full-fat treats for special occasions, and try fruit for dessert most nights of the week. From frozen berries to grilled peaches, there are a ton of options to try!
4. Explore a local park. Pocatello is home to dozens of great parks. Check out one near you or find a new one to explore around the area. Pack a healthy picnic lunch and create new memories with the family.
5. Try playing in the pool. From the Wellness Complex to Ross Park Aquatic Complex, Pocatello has multiple locations to cool off and have fun. Being on the water is very therapeutic, but don’t forget the sunscreen!
6. Have an active vacation. If you’re planning a few days out of the office with the family, plan activities that will get your heart pumping. Try walking, biking or swimming most days to shoot for at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity for adults and 60 minutes of daily physical activity for kids.
7. Join a local recreational sports team. Or start a pick-up league in your neighborhood. If you enjoy team sports such as softball, volleyball or soccer, grab a few friends and start a pick-up game. Remember to stay hydrated and learn the signs of heat stroke!
8. Catch some ZZZ’s. Whether you’ve scheduled a relaxing vacation or not, sleep is always important for our overall health. While everyone’s body is different, most people need about seven hours of quality sleep each night. Being active, limiting caffeine and establishing a bedtime routine can help.
9. Try yoga. Many business are now offering yoga classes. Yoga is a great way to practice mindful movement which benefits overall health and wellbeing.
10. Kick the soda habit. While a cool sweetened beverage may sound refreshing after a long, hot day, all the added sugar can impair your healthy lifestyle. Instead, try water infused with fresh fruit and herbs, such as strawberry, blueberry, watermelon, mint or basil.

Keeping up your healthy lifestyle over the summer is easy if you make small, meaningful and manageable changes. Staying active, eating healthy and managing stress are all important factors to stay Healthy For Good.  To learn more tips, find recipes and discover workouts, visit www.cliffordfamilymedicine.com/your-health.