Summer is upon us, and everyone is itching to get outside in the sun.  Fun in the sun is all well and good, but you should never let the fun overshadow your health and safety.

In the interest of having fun, risk reduction makes it a bit more enjoyable.  Take your body into consideration this summer, and learn what you can do to enhance your self-care this year.

Read through this brief compilation of a few ways to stay healthy while having fun this summer, and start looking forward to the warmer weather ahead.

Take proper care of your skin

Summer typically means that you’ll be spending more time out in the sun.  It’s important that you take good care of your skin when you’re exposing it to the sun’s damaging rays on a regular basis.  Whenever you’re spending time outside, you should always be wearing sunscreen.

You may not think a sunburn here and there is a big deal, but the sun can do some pretty gnarly damage to your skin.  You can add years to your aesthetic and raise your risk of developing cancer without protection from sun exposure.

Keep your heart healthy

The heat of the summer weather puts a little extra strain on your heart when you’re participating in physical activity.

It’s good to look after your heart no matter what time of year it is, and a strong heart will give you the energy to get through all of the exciting moments you hope to create during the season.

Make sure your diet contains plenty of heart-healthy foods, and don’t put your body in a position to be overheated.

Drink plenty of water throughout the day

One of the best ways to keep your body from overheating in the sun is to keep it hydrated.  Drink plenty of water throughout the day, every day.

Without adequate water, you put more strain on your body, in particular, your heart.  Your cells need water to function with ease, so don’t survive off of sodas and sports drinks while you’re out in the sun.

Practice safety while on the water

Fun in the sun often means fun in the water, and there are a lot of different ways to have fun in the water.  It’s important to keep your safety in mind while you enjoy your time.  Make sure to wear a life jacket when on a boat or jet ski, and don’t get drunk while operating a water vehicle.

Eating the fruits of your labor

You can do wonders for your health by planting a garden to tend during the summer.  Working out in your garden is good exercise, and the food you produce will be healthy for your body as well.