Summer is officially on its way. How are you feeling?
This is the time of year when our bodies and minds are starting to wake from our deep winter slumber. As we shed our winter cocoons and start to do more again, we may feel sluggish. It’s important to nourish our bodies with everything that feels good during this time, boosting energy and enjoyment. This includes movement, whole foods, activities and people. If it feels good, you’re heading the right direction!
Here are three great ways to feel fabulous this summer:
1. Get your shoes on!
Walking is one of the best and easily available forms of exercise. Even better – it takes you outside in the fresh air! The combination combined increases your happy and feel good hormones (no matter the weather). You will also stimulate every system within your body. Your heart, joints, muscles and mind will all refresh and reset along with the season.
Just 10 minutes of walking is enough to significantly help your body and mind. Best of all, it’s easy to incorporate it into your daily routine. Maybe walk those last bus stops – or park a little further away from the shops or work. How about arranging to meet a friend for a walk? A social walk goes so quickly and is great fun!
Being outside and moving allows you to de-stress and breathe fully which in turn nourishes all your joints, muscles and vital organs. You will start to feel the benefits, and maybe increase your walking. Who knows what will follow on from there!
2. Indulge in feel good foods
Choose to eat whole foods as they are satisfying and delicious to eat. Your body really does thank you for them. (And you don’t have to totally miss out on slices of cake every now and then either!)
Listen to your body. If your diet feels restrictive and dull, then look for inspiration. What feels good for you right now? Does your body require more protein? Energy? Vitamins and minerals? You will feel this in the form of cravings and tiredness. Your body is amazing. It knows exactly what you require and when.
3. Increase your water intake
Upping your water intake cleanses the body of toxins and build up. Our body fat starts to decrease naturally, similar to winter ice melting away and so drinking water (this can be warm or cold drinks, herbal teas, juices etc) will help you feel better.
Are you worried about exercising?
There are so many benefits of exercise, helping both our physical and mental health. However if it’s been a while since you’ve been active, or if you’re thinking of exercising regularly for the first time, it’s natural to feel a little anxious. If you feel any aches or pains as you increase your activity, the team at Shefford Osteopathic Clinic is here to help. We’ll help you to keep moving, enjoying life with treatments and lifestyle advice tailored to you. Make sure you enjoy this summer!
This article was written by Laura Webb, our Sports Therapist.