With summer just a few months away, we often feel pressured to start dieting and working out excessively. Instead of stressing out this season, try making these healthy changes to feel good from the inside out:
1. Drink lots of water
Staying hydrated is always a good idea, but now that the weather is beginning to warm up it’s even more important. The minimum you should be drinking each day is 8 glasses, but many studies show there are lots of benefits to drinking more. Water helps keep you feeling full, gives you more energy at the gym, flushes toxins, and gives your skin a healthy glow.
2. Don’t Skip Breakfast
It’s easy to skip breakfast when you’re struggling to get out of bed in the morning or running late for class, only leaving time to pick up a coffee on the way. But it’s so important to make time for brekkie! A healthy breakfast and some protein gives you the energy you need to take on the day, and prevents you from getting super hungry and eating unhealthy snacks later.
3. Get outside
Going outside and enjoying the nice weather is a great way break from all your homework and enjoy the Spring Quarter. Head outside for a few minutes, it’s a great mood-booster and a perfect way to clear your mind after a long day. Breathe in the fresh air and take a moment to reset and refresh.
4. Eat fresh fruits & veggies
Spring means tons of fruits and vegetables are now in season! Head to the farmer’s market to pick up a few of your favorite fruits for breakfasts and snacks, and pick out a few different veggies to cook for dinner. Chop up the veggies and sauté them with onions and garlic for a super easy and yummy dish with dinner. Plus, you’ll feel great for supporting local farmers and eating healthy.
5. Squeeze some new and fun exercise in
There’s plenty of ways to work out without going to the gym or feeling like you’re working out. Grab some friends and head to a nearby trail for a hike, swim some laps in the pool, play tennis, or go on an evening walk after dinner. These are great ways to stay active and hang out with friends at the same time.
6. Healthy snacking
Get rid of all the junk food in your kitchen and start snacking healthy. I’m no stranger to the temptation of eating more than one “serving,” but snacks are okay in moderation. Try replacing chips with veggie strips and hummus, or swap candy for a piece of fruit. A filling snack should include protein to keep you full––try some Greek yogurt with nuts and a drizzle of honey—super yummy and doesn’t taste too healthy!
7. Establish a Regular Sleep Schedule
Okay, this one is hard, but it’s worth the challenge and pays off in the end. Keeping a regular sleep schedule––even on weekends––maintains the timing of your body’s internal clock and helps you fall asleep and wake up more easily. Have a routine before bedtime, and try to head to bed and wake up around the same time each day, and you will feel the benefits. A regular sleep schedule will leave you feeling more energized and keep you from sleeping in until 2pm on beautiful spring afternoons.
8. Replace sodas with green tea
Soda is basically pure sugar––it’s not good for your body, it’s bad for your teeth, and is super dehydrating. Cutting soda out of your diet is a smart and healthy choice. Get into the habit of reaching for a glass of water with lemon and cucumber instead, or replace it with beneficial green tea. Detox your body and enjoy a refreshing beverage!
9. Don’t Forget Sunscreen!
Even if you’re not tanning under the sun, it’s important to apply at least SPF 30 sunscreen every morning. Wear sunglasses and a hat if you’re going to be outside for a while. Protect your skin now, and you’ll be thankful in the future.
10. Try Something New
Spring can be the perfect chance for a fresh start. Try something new that you’re interested in, whether it’s a fun dance workout class, a cooking class, or a new hobby like photography, this is the perfect time to take a risk and try something new!
These tips are sure to have you feeling healthy in time for summer!
Photos courtesy of Pexels