Summer is here! Are you excited? After all, It seems that everyone looks forward to summer!  It’s the perfect time for picnics and hiking and time at the pool.

And, while you may have heard people refer to those “lazy days of summer,” – the days don’t have to be lazy. Summer is an ideal time to establish some healthy habits – habits that are going to be good for you and help you maximize your summer enjoyment.

• Set a Fitness Goal: When the weather gets hot and humid, it can be tempting to skip those workouts – especially if you like to be outdoors. But if you want to keep your activity level up and not skip your sweat sessions, then you may want to set some goals. 
  • How about setting a goal for a set number of activity minutes per week? Or steps per day? Maybe putting a 10K on the fall calendar can help you rack up some miles? Fitness goals are definitely motivators!
• Turn Off Electronics More: It’s easy during the colder months to spend more time watching television, or on the computer, or scrolling through social media – because who wants to go out in the freezing weather?
  • But now that it’s nice outside, it’s time to turn the electronics off more. UW Health shares several benefits to unplugging and offers some tips to make it easier if you’re struggling to make it happen.
• Shop at Your Local Farmers’ Market: One of the best parts of summer might be the return of your local farmers’ market. Who can resist fresh fruits and vegetables when you have them right at your fingertips? Shopping at your local farmers’ market can not only improve your diet, but it’s a great way to support local producers.
• Drink More Water: Drinking water in the winter may be a struggle, but develop this healthy habit over the summer so you can carry it through the winter months. Medical News Today shares “15 Benefits of Drinking Water,” – and you’re going to really appreciate how good it is for your health. Plus, you might notice a few extra dollars in your wallet when you make drinking water a habit! 
• Wear Sunscreen: Sunscreen should be worn year-round, but if you got out of the habit during the winter months, it’s definitely time to start back up. Dermstore shares, “Yes, You Should Wear Sunscreen Every Day—Here Are 5 Reasons Why” – and they’re all really great reasons.
• Get Outside More: If you decided that you were going to unplug a little more, why not use that time to get outside? It’s certainly a healthy summer habit – and it even has been shown to have a positive effect on your health and mental well-being. It’s true! Sharp shares “5 Ways Being Outside Can Make You Happier and Healthier.”
• Plant a Container Garden: Maybe you can’t plant a full-on garden this summer, but a container garden is a great way to start. You can plant some vegetables or herbs on your patio or balcony. And you’ll love using what you’ve grown to enhance your meals. 
• Wear Your Sunglasses: Sure, your sunglasses may add to your fashion style, but they are important for keeping your eyes healthy, too. The Cleveland Clinic has some ideas on “How to Choose the Best Sunglasses for Your Eye Health.” 
• Get Some Rest: With longer days, it can be tempting to stay up later, but don’t neglect getting a good night’s rest. Proper sleep is essential for your physical, mental, and emotional health.
• Relax: And yes, don’t forget to relax! Summer can be a busy time, but make sure you set aside some time to just enjoy the warm weather and sunshine.

Are you ready to make this the best summer yet? Then think about implementing some of these good habits! You’ll be glad you did.