Summertime, Summertime

As a yoga instructor, I have learned over the years that summer classes are not very well attended as compared to other times of the year. Vacations, having kids home from school, and visitors, while all wonderful, can certainly wreak havoc on one’s exercise and wellness routines and intentions. Additionally, summer socializing can make healthful eating a challenge, with lots of delicious treats and drinks wherever all around. I know for me personally, being “off schedule” makes healthy eating far more challenging.

My advice? Go for it! Enjoy summer and the break it provides from your usual routine. Do something new and different with your kids. Incorporate your visitors into your plans. Take the time to be social as it is so much harder to do so on snowy winter days when it’s dark at 4:30pm. 

However, all this is not to say that you should let your fitness and wellness routine slide until September. 

Take advantage of the break from routine to explore some new wellness and fitness options. Maybe that means taking a power walk on the beach instead of going to the gym. Or swim in the lake with your kids versus your usual laps at the indoor pool. Maybe you will finally have time to attend that yoga class you’ve wanted to try. Explore a new city on foot rather than public transit.

On the food front, make the most of nature’s summertime bounty of fruits and vegetables. Hit one of the many farmers’ markets that have popped up all over town. Have some gorgeous fresh berries for dessert tonight instead of an ice cream truck treat. Use your barbeque to grill up some amazing summer veggies. At your next social event, try a new healthful offering vs. your usual chips and dip.

Try not to let these summer months lull you into break from your healthy habits. Be well.