Boost your mood

With the weather heating up and the days grow longer, do you notice your mood lifts and you feel better? There are many reasons summertime can make you feel happier and healthier. After all, nothing beats the sun on your face, a cool breeze rustling through the grass and the sound of birds chirping in the distance.

Ready to take advantage of the health and mood-boosting benefits of the season? Here are some tips to make the most of what summer has to offer:

• Soak up the sunshine. 200 million Americans don’t get enough vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin.” This vitamin is important for cell growth and immunity. It also helps your body absorb calcium for bone health and encourages serotonin production, which boosts your mood. Many people with depression have low vitamin D levels, so increasing your levels may help you feel better. Spending at least 15 minutes outdoors each day can help you get the vitamin D you need. Just don’t forget sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. You’ll still reap the benefits of the sun, but without a painful burn.
  
  
  
  
• Enjoy active pursuits. Downtime during the summer shouldn’t be wasted on binge-watching your favorite TV show. Rather, it’s the perfect time to get outside, enjoy the beautiful weather and get moving! There are many outdoor activities that are lots of fun and also great for your health. Walking, biking, swimming and even gardening all exercise your muscles and get your heart rate up. may find it’s easier to sleep after spending time outside, which also helps keep you healthier and leaves you feeling more refreshed and energized the next day.
  
  
  
  
• Eat more produce. Another great benefit of summer is the availability of fresh local produce. Not only are fruits and vegetables full of important nutrients that help boost your immunity, they’re also low in calories, high in fiber and great for weight loss. Stop at your local farmer’s market and pick up some zucchini, peppers, tomatoes and onions for veggie kabobs or pick out some delicious stone fruit to grill for a healthy dessert. Taking advantage of the abundance of good produce available in summer can help you get into the habit of eating more fruits and veggies throughout the year.
  
  
  
  
• Spend time with others. Many people find it’s easier to socialize with others when the weather is warm and they can get together outdoors. Ask a friend or family member to join you for a baseball game, picnic in the park, outdoor concert or friendly game of corn hole. Attend a block party or enjoy a community festival. Walk and talk with your neighbors. Socializing is great for your mental health – and when you turn it into an outdoor activity, you’ll get the added mood-boosters of some fresh air and sunshine, too!

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