Posted on June 8, 2021
Have a Happy and Healthy Summer
Whether at home in the garden, out for the day or on holiday, we all want to enjoy a happy and healthy summer, because we all deserve more this year. Read on for simple ways to make summer 2021 memorable for all the right reasons.
On the road
Continuing travel restrictions as per the government guidelines, means many of us will be holidaying closer to home this year and that often equals long car journeys. Stay safe (and sane) while driving to your destination by following these top tips:
- Schedule regular stops to stretch your legs and get some fresh air.
- Keep kids (and big kids) entertained with car games or a family-friendly audiobook.
- Pack healthy snacks like nuts and seeds which are full of healthy fats and protein that keep you fuller for longer and provide sustained energy. Other snacks include: fruit (apple) with peanut butter, homemade granola bars, fruit like bananas are a good source of vitamin B6 and vitamin C, which both contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, carrots and celery with hummus also counts towards your 5 a day. Healthy snacks also help to avoid service station burger temptation.
- Stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause tiredness, so have a bottle of water close by while driving.
Jetting off
If you are heading further afield this summer, stay fit and well while flying by:
- Follow the government guidelines, making sure you have a mask on and maintain social distancing.
- Moving often to prevent blood clots and keep the circulation going, particularly during long-haul flights.
- Wearing loose, comfortable clothing and layering up so you can warm up or cool down.
- Moisturising your skin to combat the drying effects of plane ventilation.
- For long flights it is always recommended to try and get some sleep to help with jet lag.
- Drinking plenty of water and limiting your alcohol consumption to avoid fatigue and dehydration.
In the sun
At home or abroad, being sun safe is essential. Always pack your sunscreen – and remember the following advice:
- Seek the shade between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest.
- Cover up with in date sunscreen that offers both UVA and UVB protection. Generally a sunscreen with SPF (sun protection factor) 30 and a UVA rating of 4 or 5 is considered a good standard of sun protection. Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors and also when outside. Don’t forget to reapply after swimming, towel drying, sweating and after any vigorous activity.
- Make sure to wear suitable clothing, sunglasses and a hat.
- Plan indoor activities to avoid too much sun. An afternoon siesta/snooze counts.
First aid essentials
From hayfever to insect bites, the summer holds its own unique hazards. Keep first aid essentials at hand, including;
- Antihistamines and natural alternatives taken in advance for hayfever sufferers. Check the pollen count before making plans to avoid suffering bad symptoms while out and about.
- Bite and sting relief cream or active honey cream. Wash the area with soap and water before applying cream. A cold compress or ice pack can also help reduce any swelling.
- Aloe Vera gel provides cooling, moisturising properties that make it perfect to use after being out in the sun.
- Medication or natural alternatives for an upset stomach. If you do have a case of traveller’s tummy, stay hydrated and avoid caffeine and dairy products which can worsen symptoms.
- Antacid, digestive enzymes or a natural supplement for indigestion, can help make dining out more enjoyable.
- Hand sanitiser and antibacterial wipes. Keep hands and surfaces clean while out and about or during travel to minimise the spread of germs, viruses and bacteria.
