With the scorching sun and the occasional beach vacation, summer has earned its reputation as the best time of the year. The season is a great time to soak up Vitamin D and spend time outside.
However, the impact of summer on our mental and physical health can’t be ignored. In this article, we’ll explore how summer time affects our mind and body.
Vitamin D Boost
When we spend time in the sun, our body absorbs Vitamin D which is crucial for bone growth and overall health. Vitamin D also helps regulate the immune system and fights off diseases.
In summer, when the days are longer and the weather is warmer, we tend to spend more time outside. This helps us meet our daily recommended dose of Vitamin D.
Improved Mood
Summer is associated with happy memories of summer camp, beach vacations, and pool parties. These summer activities help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Exposure to sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, a hormone that’s responsible for inducing feelings of happiness and well-being. Studies show that people who spend more time outside in the summer have lower cortisol levels compared to those who spend most of their time indoors. Cortisol is the hormone responsible for stress.
Increased Activity and Weight Loss
Summer weather calls for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and biking. These activities are not only fun, but also beneficial for our physical health.
Engaging in physical activities in summer can help improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and endurance. As a result, you burn more calories and lose weight.
Better Sleep
Longer days and shorter nights can disrupt our sleep patterns in summer, but the abundance of daylight can actually help regulate our circadian rhythm.
Exposing our body to sunlight, especially in the morning, helps reset our internal clock and improve sleep quality at night. According to a study, people who spent more time outside during the day reported better sleep quality.
Summer Foods
In summer, we tend to crave lighter and fresher foods like fruits and salads. These foods are loaded with nutrients that nourish the body and help prevent diseases.
Watermelon, for instance, is a great source of antioxidants, promotes hydration, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Grilled vegetables are also a great source of fiber and vitamins.
Skin Protection
In summer, we need to take extra care of our skin to protect it from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Sunscreen is essential when we spend time outdoors to prevent skin cancer, sunburn, and premature aging.
We also need to wear protective clothing such as caps and sunglasses to shield our skin and eyes.
Dehydration
Summer is a great time to increase water intake, but it’s also a season where dehydration is common. High temperatures and outdoor activities can lead to excessive sweating and water loss.
It’s important to stay hydrated by drinking water and other fluids. Dehydration can lead to headaches, dizziness, and other health complications.
Allergies
Summer is also a time when allergies are at their peak. Pollen, mold spores, and other allergens can trigger allergic reactions like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
To reduce the impact of allergies, it’s important to limit exposure to allergens, keep windows and doors closed, and use air conditioning. If allergy symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
Mental Health Challenges
Just as summer has its benefits, it also has its challenges. Summer can be stressful, especially for students who have to juggle school and summer activities. It can also be a difficult season for people who suffer from seasonal depression or anxiety.
The pressure to have fun and make the most out of summer can be overwhelming. It’s important to take care of our mental health by seeking professional help or engaging in activities that promote relaxation.
Conclusion
Summer has its pros and cons when it comes to our overall health. While the season offers plenty of opportunities for fun activities and sunshine, it also has its challenges.
It’s important to take care of our physical and mental health during summer, by drinking plenty of water, using sunscreen, and engaging in outdoor activities. With proper care and attention, we can enjoy a healthy and happy summer.
