Summer is a great time for all things fun, whether it’s heading to the beach with friends or exploring a new museum. It’s also a great time to adopt some health habits that will help keep you healthy and safe this summer.

Drink Water

It is great to get outside and be active, but remember to drink lots of water—aim for 8-10 glasses a day and more when you are very active. The summer heat makes dehydration more common, and you will feel more alert and healthy if you drink water plenty of water throughout the day.

Wear Sunscreen

Even on a cloudy day sunburns are entirely possible. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends wearing SPF 15 or higher and reapplying after two hours to reduce the risk of skin cancer for all skin tones.

Stay Active

There are so many easy ways to fit exercise into your schedule during the summer: walk or bike instead of driving (remember to wear a helmet), go swimming with friends, or even spend a day at a water park where you will surely fit in lots of walking in between rides.

Try Cooking

Outside of a school cafeteria, your meal options may seem endless, if not just less limited. With more freedom in the kitchen, try making healthier meals. Summer fruits work great as a snack, in a salad, or in a smoothie. Eggs are packed with protein and are a healthy option beyond breakfast. Not only will you gain more culinary confidence, you will feel better and stay full longer.

Get Some Sleep

Find a balance between getting enough sleep and keeping a fairly regular schedule. I often find myself sleeping past noon in the summer because I don’t have to get up early. While I catch plenty of Z’s, by the time I get up, most of my day is gone. You don’t have to wake up at 6 AM every day, but waking up at about the same time every day is better for your body.

Take Time for Yourself

Without the stress of tests and essays, you can finally find the time to relax. Try meditating, read a good book, and spend time outdoors. You will thank yourself for the peace of mind when it all starts back up again in the fall.

– Maura