To Hold Onto For Fall
Source: Huffington Post
The temps are (slowly) starting to drop and the kids are back in school, but you don't have to completely lose that summer feeling! In fact, a number of the health lessons we've learned this summer can benefit you into fall -- and beyond.
Click through the slideshow below to see some of our favorite summer health habits that will be transitioning right along with us into autumn. Then tell us what healthy summer lesson you plan to carry with you in the comments.
Eating seasonal fruits and veggies ensures your produce will taste, smell and feel its best -- which in turn means you'll enjoy eating the good stuff more (and possibly stay away from that cookie jar). Tomato season may be ending, but with fall superfoods like pumpkins, apples and Brussels sprouts ripening now, eating in season can be just as delicious.
Move More During The Day
Stick With Sunscreen
Yes, the sun's rays are strongest during the summer months, but your skin is still exposed after the fall equinox. You likely won't have to
apply as much or as frequently as, say, during a day at the beach, but a little protection is still a good idea.
Wear Sunglasses
Stay Hydrated
We all know it's a smart idea to drink plenty of water -- but we probably tend to be a little more aware of our
hydration situation during the summer, when sky-high temperatures threaten heat exhaustion,
heatstroke and other complications. Come fall, you may not feel as parched, but
staying hydrated is still crucial to keeping your body running at its best.
Protect Against Mosquitoes
This summer is a particularly buggy one, thanks to an unusually mild winter. While mosquito season peaks in the summer months,
West Nile virus is still a risk in the fall, according to the CDC.
Commercial insect repellants can help, as can some more
natural techniques, like covering exposed skin and avoiding going outside during dawn and dusk hours. And if bites do happen this fall,
remember not to scratch -- it will only make that itch worse.
Try A Water Workout
Even though the public pool may have closed for the season, and it'll feel a little chilly at the beach, the
indoor pool at your local gym is a great place to hang out to that summer spirit. Thirty minutes of light to moderate lap
swimming can burn over 230 calories, according to myfitnesspal. Less experienced swimmers can try water aerobics classes or even
Aqua Zumba, to really turn up the heat.
Stay Safe At The Salon
Those strappy summer sandals just wouldn't have looked right without the perfect pedicure. But if you like the polished look year-round, take note: The tools and even that whirlpool tub
can spread fungus, viruses and bacteria, HuffPost Healthy Living's Laura Schocker reported in May. Consider bringing your own tools and clean them with an antiseptic solution at home.
