Summer Self-Care: Embrace Wellness on International Self-Care Day
Happy International Self-Care Day! Did you know that we have a day dedicated to self-care? If not, you likely aren’t alone. While self-care is becoming more normal to discuss, it’s still not something we as humans often prioritize. What better time to focus on self-care than in the Summer! Summer invites us to slow down, savor the simple pleasures, and rejuvenate our minds, bodies, and spirits. Join us as we explore simple yet effective ways to embrace self-care and make this summer the most refreshing yet. We’ll also touch on why self-care is a vital foundation of health, especially in the summer.
Summer Heat
Scientists say that the Summer of 2023 was the hottest on record and it will likely be the coolest moving forward due to warming temperatures around the world. We have 200 million people displaced every year due to climate change-associated events and 80-90% of those displaced are women and children. This directly increases stress thus impacting one’s cognitive functioning and mental health.
After three exposures of heat waves, stressor proteins get activated and our body becomes inflamed, which can result in physical health challenges. With those heat proteins being in the brain, it can impact cognition and mental health IF not taken care of with actionable steps. You are prioritizing self-care by staying cool and protecting yourself from the heat. Here are some self-care tips, specific for Summer:
1. Prioritize Sleep
Research tells us that adults need between 7 and 9 hours of quality sleep to remain physically and mentally healthy. Sleeping is one of the best ways we can give back to ourselves. It is a great way to refresh your body and gain mental clarity. This summer, prioritize sleep as a form of self-care!
2. Stay Hydrated
Have you ever thought of hydration as an act of self-care? Drinking water, an appropriate amount for you, can have a positive impact on cognition, stabilize your emotions, and even combat feelings of anxiety. Research recommends a fluid intake of 15.5 cups for men and 11.5 cups for women.
3. Avoid the outdoors during the hot midday hours
Staying inside during the hottest parts of the day can reduce risk of heat stroke, dehydration and sunburn. Use this time to care for yourself. Read, learn a new craft, or try out yoga. There are many self-care activities that you can implement when the temperature is at its peak.
4. Be kind to your skin-use sunscreen
Using sunscreen is more than just a skincare habit-it’s a form of self-care that protects your health, and contributes to your overall well-being. Applying sunscreen consistently is especially important during the summer months because sun exposure is at its peak. By wearing sunscreen and protecting your skin, you are showing love to your body!
As the Summer continues, it’s essential to remember that self-care isn’t just a luxury but a vital part of staying healthy, both physically and mentally, during this season. By staying hydrated, protecting our skin, and listening to our body’s needs for rest, we can fully enjoy all that summer has to offer. So, embrace the summer glow and stay cool by practicing these self-care tips, and let this season be a time of caring for yourself in the ways that you need.
As always, check out our MYM webpage for more resources and our events calendar to register for any upcoming events. We have a community offering of the Community Resiliency Model that was rescheduled to July 31st, 1:30-4pm, at the North Cobb Library. On August 6th, we have a Behavioral Health Coordination Meeting with Chairwoman Lisa Cupid where we will discuss navigating the system of care, focusing on the roles of 988 and 911. Lastly, on August 13th, we have our Coffee with the Collaborative from 9-11am.
If you or someone you know is going through a mental health crisis, please seek out help by calling 988. 988 is the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.