The summer season is
upon us, which for many individuals, means spending time outdoors and becoming
more physically active. Whether you’re
an aspiring athlete, a serious nature lover, or someone who enjoys fun in the
sun, there are special precautions that need to be taken to protect your body
during the summer season.
1.
Drink plenty of water: The body’s
water supply is responsible for many important functions such as digestion, controlling
body temperature, and protecting our joints by providing lubrication and
cushioning. In warmer temperatures, we lose
more water from the body through increased perspiration. The consequences of inadequate water
intake/dehydration may include: headaches, fatigue, digestive problems, joint
pain, muscle pain and cramping.
Therefore, special care should be taken to replenish fluids lost during
the summer season. Limit diuretics such
as caffeinated and alcoholic beverages which actually drain the body of water.
2.
Get just enough sun: Appropriate
sun exposure can provide many health benefits associated with the natural
production of Vitamin D. Avoid sunburn
which is a result of overexposure to the sun’s UV radiation and can contribute
to certain skin cancers, and a premature aging and wrinkling of the skin. To protect yourself, apply sunscreen
regularly, wear a wide-brim hat and light-colored clothing that covers your
exposed skin. Your eyes should also be
protected with UV blocking sunglasses.
Outdoor activities and sports should be limited to the early morning or
late afternoon when UV rays are not as strong. Be cautious on cloudy days, as your skin is
still susceptible to burn under these conditions.
3.
Think safety first: Water sports and other outdoor
activities should always be performed with safety in mind. This means wearing a life jacket in deeper
water or if you are not a strong swimmer.
Parents should always keep a watchful eye on young children around
water. Diving into shallow or unknown
waters should never be performed to eliminate the chance of serious spinal
injury. Running on pool decks may result
in serious slip and fall injuries. When
bicycling or in-line skating, be sure to wear bright reflective clothing and
protective headgear. Wearing appropriate
footwear for the activities you are performing will give you balance, support,
and protection.
4.
Prepare your body for activity and exercise: There are many activities made more
enjoyable during the summer season such as gardening, walking, running,
swimming, canoeing, bicycling, and golfing to name a few. Prepare your body for physical activity by
stimulating the joints and muscles, and increasing blood circulation with a
proper warm-up. If you have been
inactive for a period of time, gradually ease into activity and take it slow.
Following
the above rules and safety tips can go a long way in protecting your body
during the summer season. From all of us
at the New Hamburg Wellness Centre, have a safe and enjoyable summer!
This article is a
basic summary for educational purposes only.
It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for
consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.
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