Staying happy and healthy through the Summer

Summer is officially here! Whilst June was reported as the hottest on record, we are of course, all experiencing a cooler and damper July.  But we still have warm and long summer days and are famous for not letting a bit of weather get in the way of what we want to do!  Now is still the perfect time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, embark on thrilling adventures, and create lasting memories.


While you're out there enjoying your favourite activities, we want to make sure you stay happy and healthy. So here are a few tips to keep in mind whilst enjoying those summer activities.

1. Beach Bliss

Whether it’s somewhere in the UK or a white sandy beach further afield, who doesn't love a day at the beach? The sound of crashing waves, warm sand between your toes, and the joy of building sandcastles - heaven on earth!  However, all that lounging on beach towels and playing in the sand can strain your back if you're not careful. Follow these three easy steps to stay active all summer long:

     Choose the Right Beach Gear: Opt for beach chairs with good back support or invest in portable ergonomic chairs. They provide proper lumbar support, allowing you to relax without compromising your spine's health.


     Mind Your Posture: Whether you're engrossed reading the latest thriller, catching up on the latest celebrity gossip or checking social media whilst uploading those photos to make everyone at home jealous, it's crucial to maintain good posture. Avoid slouching or hunching over for extended periods. Try to sit up straight and use a rolled up towel to support your lower back and try to keep your chin up to avoid the dreaded 'tech-neck' (and yes you can even suffer from this with a good old fashioned book!).


     Stretch it Out: Take breaks from sunbathing to stretch your body gently. Stand up, reach for the sky, and perform some simple stretches to release tension in your neck, shoulders, and lower back. And don't forget to stay hydrated!

2. Camping Adventures

While some people prefer a luxury hotel, there's something special about spending nights under the stars, surrounded by nature's tranquillity. Camping can be a fantastic summer adventure, but it also requires some precautions.

     Invest in Quality Sleeping Gear: A comfortable sleeping pad or air mattress can make a world of difference in ensuring a restful night's sleep. Look for options that provide adequate support for your back and neck. Better to spend a few pounds more and wake up feeling great!


     Lift with Care: When setting up your camping gear, remember to lift heavy objects properly. Bend your knees, engage your core muscles, and lift with your legs rather than your back. Share the load with your camping buddies whenever possible.


     Stay Active: Explore the beauty of nature by taking short walks, hiking, or engaging in other activities that keep you moving. Regular movement helps maintain flexibility, strengthens your muscles, and helps reduce the risk of pain or injury.

3. Summer of Sport

Summer and outdoor sports quite simply go hand in hand. From walking and cycling, to golf and tennis, there's something for everyone. Here are just a few tips to keep your body happy while enjoying your favourite sports - or trying out a new one:

     Warm Up and Cool Down: It might be boring, but before diving into any physical activity remember to warm up your muscles with stretches. Afterward, don't forget to cool down with stretches too in order to prevent muscle tightness and reduce the risk of injury. Trust me, it’s worth the extra 5 minutes!


     Use the Correct Equipment: Ensure that your sports gear, such as bicycles, golf clubs, or tennis racquets, are appropriately sized and adjusted to you. Ill-fitting equipment can put unnecessary strain on your body.


     Listen to Your Body: More often than not, we know if we’re overdoing it. So if you feel any discomfort or pain during a sport or activity, don't ignore it. Take a break, rest, and seek professional advice if necessary. Your body knows best, so listen to its signals.

4. Soak up the Sun

While it's important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, moderate sun exposure offers notable benefits.

     Improve your skins health: Sunlight can help alleviate certain skin conditions.


     Give yourself a vitamin boost: When your skin is exposed to sunlight, it triggers the production of vitamin D, a vital nutrient for your body. Considering that over 40% of adults have a vitamin D deficiency, soaking in the midday sun, especially during summer, can help boost your vitamin D levels.

     Don't forget the sunscreen: Remember to apply a high SPF sunscreen that protects you from both UVA and UVB rays regularly.  Stay out of direct sunlight when the sun is extremely hot.


     Stay Hydrated: Remember to drink plenty of water especially on warm days. Even if there are clouds in the sky our bodies need more water to keep us hydrated at this time of the year.

As you embark on your summer adventures, keep these tips in mind to protect your body and fully enjoy the season. But most importantly, remember that prevention is key. To find out more about how regular treatments can help support your health throughout the simply give us a call.  

And if you can feel that your symptoms are recurring or you are developing any niggling discomfort, please consider booking an appointment with your clinician as early intervention can prevent more serious issues.

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