My favorite season is here — SUMMER! Warm weather is perfect for so many wonderful outdoor activities. It’s also a great time to revisit your health and fitness goals – perhaps you might choose to switch up your workout routine or try some new recipes.
Some of my favorite summer pastimes are hiking, walking, yoga on the beach, and boating. I’m blessed to live on Bangs Lake – I walk the 4-mile loop around the lake as often as possible. It’s rejuvenating to take in the fresh air, flowers in full bloom, and people (and pets) out and about enjoying the sun and the outdoors.
During the summer I eat lighter and take advantage of local farms for the freshest seasonal produce around.
Summer is also a busy time for social events; graduation parties, weddings, family vacations, concerts, and more that book my schedule up quickly. I try not to commit to every event or activity – and also block off some weekends for “no plans." This helps me go with the flow and not get overwhelmed with calendar fatigue.
Here are my top three tips for a healthy and happy summer:
Stay active! Take advantage of local parks or forest preserves by biking, running, or walking regularly. Walk the dog (or a friend’s dog) or visit a dog park to play with the fur babies. A simple 30-minute walk outdoors does wonders for the body and soul.
Get outside! Embrace nature – it’s therapeutic and grounding to connect with the Earth. Grab your laptop and work outside at your favorite coffee shop. Take a few moments to read on the patio or sit outside during your lunch break.
Stay mindful to balance your activities and schedule – don’t forget to make time for YOU. Self care is critical when there is a lot going on and you may feel stretched too thin. Make regular time to get a facial or a manicure, or to spend a half hour by yourself to meditate, read, or journal.
When working with my clients, I assess every facet of their life and determine their health goals. Since everyone is unique, there is no "one size fits all" solution for optimal health. I work closely with my clients to create a custom plan for them to follow, including simple diet and lifestyle changes to create sustainable healthy habits.
What are YOUR summer health goals?
MANGO SALSA
I love fresh mangos in the summer! This salsa checks all the boxes – it’s quick to prepare, delicious, and very versatile. It’s a fabulous complement to mahi mahi or halibut, can be a yummy sandwich topping, or simply enjoyed with tortilla chips.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• ½ red pepper, diced
• 1-2 jalapeños, diced (optional depending on how spicy you like it)
• 2-3 green onions, sliced thinly
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1-2 limes, juiced
INSTRUCTIONS:
Mix all ingredients in a medium bowl and enjoy!
Kristen Todoroff is a Holistic Health Coach and owner of Be Well 360 (BeWell360.com). She helps professional women eliminate hot flashes and regain control of their bodies so they feel sexy, empowered, and alive stepping into the next phase of womanhood. Contact Kristen to schedule an initial consultation.