Taking care of yourself this summer doesn’t mean needing to break the bank. In fact, with a bit of planning and preparation, you can ensure your well-being this summer on just about any budget.
1. Wear Sunscreen That’s 50 SPF or Higher
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 1.9 million new cancer cases were diagnosed in 2021 in the US alone, and skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. Any time you plan to spend time outdoors, it’s highly advisable to stick to sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher to protect yourself and your health. The higher the SPF, the more protection you receive each time you apply the sunscreen. When applying sunscreen, do so liberally, covering all exposed areas of the skin that are likely to be in the sun. Allow the sunscreen to activate anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes before heading out into the sun to maximize your protection.
2. Use Over-the-Counter Whitening Strips
A poll conducted by Harris Poll found that 25% of 15,000 respondents stated that they intentionally avoid smiling due to the appearance of their teeth at the time of the survey. Using over-the-counter whitening strips is a budget-friendly method of improving the brightness of your smile without extensive dental work or costs. White strips can provide results in as little as a week in some cases.
3. Opt for Prescription-Strength Antiperspirant
If you struggle to keep up with your body’s perspiration whenever you’re spending time outdoors, opting for prescription-strength antiperspirant is one viable solution. A prescription-strength antiperspirant can significantly reduce excessive sweating. One treatment to consider is also Botox. According to Healthline, Botox can provide noticeable results in just one to two days after receiving initial treatment. Botox is not only used for cosmetic purposes but can be useful in reducing excessive sweating and perspiration in those with hormonal conditions or imbalances.
4. Plan Simple and Healthy Meals
Taking the time to meal prep during the summer is one way to stick to any diet you have in mind for the summertime. Planning simple and healthy meals once a week can help you to avoid eating out or ordering in, ultimately saving you money and calories. Consider fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season during the summer that are also healthy and pair well with lean, fresh meats. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, stick to seasonal dishes to save even more.
5. Stay Active Daily
When you want to stay as healthy as possible, especially during the summertime, you can do so by staying active daily. Getting active for at least 20 minutes a day can help to significantly improve your body’s metabolism while helping you to stay in shape, regardless of the time of year. Even getting out to walk around your neighborhood can help provide your body with the natural endorphins it needs.
6. Disconnect From Tech
One of the best ways to stay grounded and reconnect with family and loved ones is to disconnect from using your tech devices altogether. Spending anywhere from just one day to an entire week without access to your smartphone, your computers, and other tech devices (unless in need of an emergency) can provide you with an effective detox. Detoxing from technology can help reduce anxiety, irritability, and other emotions that may be interfering with your everyday life. Taking time away from technology regularly is highly recommended, even if you choose not to complete an entire detox.
Staying healthy this summer does not require an expensive gym membership or an entirely new diet. By making subtle, yet positive changes in your daily routine, you can ensure you remain as healthy as possible all year round.