Don't Let the Summer Heat Interrupt Your Life
By Virginia Laird
Summer heat can be exhausting enough to bring your plans to a sudden halt. Rather than allowing this to take place, it is best to plan ahead for the heat you know is ahead. Health and wellness experts have offered a variety of tips that can help you avoid the summer heat from crashing your party plans, including:
- Work in the early morning or evening
- Make time to stay hydrated
- Know your limits
Work in the Early Morning or Evening
While working outdoors during the summer, it is best to plan your timing around the heat. The middle of the day is the hottest, leading health and wellness experts to suggest those working outdoors should attempt to work in the early morning hours or evening hours. This can help you avoid many heat-related issues. While many who work outdoors may not be able to choose these hours, there are many things to do in an effort to help keep these heat-caused problems at bay. Some include:
- Make time for breaks
- Dress in light colored and cool clothing
- Work in the shade where possible
Making sure to take the necessary precautions can keep you from landing in the hospital due to heat and the effects it can have on the body.
Make Time to Stay Hydrated
Being properly hydrated can affect your health at any time during the year. However, summer can prove to be one of the times it can be a struggle to stay hydrated. While out working in the heat, the body will sweat, causing you to lose plenty of fluids. This can require you to consume far more water than you typically would. Research suggests, on an average day, you should drink at least half of your body weight in ounces daily. Throughout the summer it can be necessary to drink much more than this. Health and wellness experts suggest making time to stay hydrated be a priority while working outside.
Know Your Limits
In all things, knowing your limits can protect your from major issues. This is no different when applying it to working outdoors. The body can only take so much before it shuts down. Being in tune to your body, and listening to it when it is screaming for a break or a drink can prevent heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Health and wellness experts advise knowing your limits can keep you safe while getting the job done.
With these tips you are now ready to begin tackling your next outdoor project. Make sure to have water nearby and locate your shady area for breaks so that you will be prepared for the heat that is in store.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Avondale, Ariz.