The Key to Summer Fun Is Preparation
Summer is in full swing, which means it's time to soak up the sunshine and enjoy the warmer weather. But to really make the most of summer, you need to make sure you're fully prepared.
Here are some tips to help you have an epic summer full of fun and adventure.
Pack Properly for Any Summer Activity
Whether you're headed to the beach, the pool, a barbecue, or on a road trip, proper packing is key. Make a list in advance of everything you'll need and check it twice before heading out. Some essentials for summer fun include:
- Swimsuit and coverup
- Towels and sunscreen
- Sunglasses and hat
- Water shoes or flip flops
- Picnic or beach blanket
- Light jacket or hoodie in case it cools down at night
Packing correctly means you'll have what you need and won't have to cut your fun short. And don't forget the snacks! Having nutritious snacks on hand is important, especially if you'll be active all day. Things like fresh fruit, veggies, nuts, and Balance of Nature will give you lasting energy.
Stay Hydrated in the Summer Heat
Dehydration is no joke in the summer. The heat and humidity can zap your body of moisture quickly, so it's critical to stay hydrated when you're out having fun. Pack plenty of water and drinks with electrolytes to replenish what your body loses through sweat. If plain water gets boring, throw in some fruit or veggies to infuse flavor.
Signs of dehydration include dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, nausea, and dark urine. If you start feeling any dehydration symptoms, take a break in the shade and steadily rehydrate with water and electrolytes. The last thing you want is dehydration bringing your summer fun to an abrupt halt!
Guard Against Sunburn
A sunburn can put a real damper on summer festivities. To avoid ending up crispy and sore, be vigilant about sun protection whenever you're outdoors. Apply broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours. Wear wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and tightly-woven, lightweight clothing at the beach or pool.
Seek shade whenever possible during peak sun hours. If you do get a burn, aloe vera gel, cool baths, and over-the-counter pain relievers can provide relief. And next time, don't skimp on the sunscreen! Preventing sunburn makes it much easier to have nonstop summer fun.
Stay Active for Endless Summer Energy
The urge to veg out in front of the TV during summer is real. But getting active outdoors should be a priority if you want to feel your summer best. Plan activities like hiking, swimming, paddleboarding, Frisbee, beach volleyball, cycling, and so on. Moving your body gets your blood pumping and endorphins flowing, providing natural energy.
If motivation is an issue, set active goals and challenges like completing a local 5K run or lake swim. Schedule exercise plans with friends to make it social and set phone alerts to remind yourself to get moving. Getting in an energizing summer workout leaves you primed for further adventures rather than lazing around.
Fuel Up with Nutritious Summer Foods
Summer eating should feel like a treat, yet you still want nutrition to power your fun. Focus on fresh fruits and veggies at every meal, like watermelon, berries, leafy greens, tomatoes, and corn. Seek out farmer's markets for local produce. Grilling lean proteins and veggies is a tasty way to get nutrients minus the heat of firing up your stove.
Bring healthy potluck dishes like fresh salads to summer gatherings. For snacks and treats, stick with things like popsicles, iced teas, and smoothie bowls. Hydrating, energizing foods will keep your summer momentum going strong.
Plan Activities You Enjoy
The key to summer fun is spending your time doing things you genuinely enjoy. Don't feel obligated to do activities that don't bring you happiness just because it's summer. Instead, figure out what gets you excited and pursue those pastimes with passion!
Make a summer bucket list filled only with things you'll love, like museums, festivals, camping, boating, amusement parks, miniature golf, summer league sports, or summer concerts. Focusing on enjoyable activities ensures you'll make the most of these sunny months. Try new things but know it's okay to skip the stuff that doesn't interest you.
Embrace Spontaneity
While preparation is important, the best summer memories often come from being spontaneous in the moment. Say yes to impromptu invitations, take random day trips, explore meandering backroads, stop at unexpected pitstops, and veer off-plan when something more exciting comes up.
Leave room for flexibility in your summer schedule. Last-minute fun makes the most of summer weather and opportunities that pop up. Ditch the routine and structure and see where spontaneity takes you. You never know what exciting adventures you might stumble upon. Just be sure to come prepared with snacks, water and sun protection!
Make Relaxation a Priority
It's easy to over pack your summer social calendar. But don't forget to build in time for rest and relaxation. Read a book at the park, lounge in the backyard hammock, take cat naps after beach days, and sit around a fire pit star gazing at night. Downtime recharges your battery, so you have energy for more summer exploits.
Set aside designated rest days with zero plans or obligations. Turn off your devices and tune out the world for a while. Savor these restorative moments knowing more adventures await. Balance busy days with slow days for the perfect summer mix.
By packing properly, hydrating, protecting your skin, eating nutritious foods, planning fun activities, embracing spontaneity, and relaxing, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable summer. This is the time of year to make lifelong memories and truly enjoy yourself.
Follow these tips and get excited about the endless possibilities ahead. This will undoubtedly be one of your best summers yet. Soak it all in! Now get out there and start creating your own epic adventures.
