3 Healthy Tips to Ease You into August

1.  Relaxation Take a nap in a hammock and enjoy the smell of freshly cut grass. Go to the park and meditate or read under a favorite tree. One of the greatest places to rest in the summertime is by the water. There is something magical and restorative in water, and you naturally crave to be near it, by it or in it. Heading to the water, whether it is the beach, a lake or a kiddy pool, can be relaxing and rejuvenating.  2.  Exercise Your body loves to move.  Think for a moment of what type of movement you would consider fun as opposed to torturous.  The summer offers so many choices - it's simply up to you to choose which style of movement excites you. Your heart will thank you, your soul will be gratified, your limbs will be more fluid and you'll sleep better at night. Whether you are relaxing, exercising or both, notice that being outside in nature has a profound way of quieting your mind and reconnecting you. Often this relaxation and peace of mind is what your body craves the most. So while summer is here, strap on your sandals and enjoy the rich elements of sun, wind and water and the nourishment that they bring. 3.  Water I know you are aware of the importance of drinking enough water.  Getting your daily dose of water helps your organs perform their functions, keeps your skin clear and hydrated, and allows physical action in your body to flow smoothly. Even with this knowledge, it can still be challenging to drink all the water your body deserves daily. In the summer, when you play hard, sweat and spend prolonged time in the sun, drinking plenty of water is critical. If you are not drinking enough you may experience poor digestion, sluggish thinking, skin breakouts, headaches, bad breath and general fatigue.   What about quality? Some people like bottled water, while others prefer filtered water. The key is to like the taste of the water you are drinking, and the water should agree with your body. If the taste of plain water is unappealing, experiment to see how you can make it tasty and drinkable. Try adding a few mint leaves, a wedge of lemon, a sprig of parsley, slices of cucumber, a twist of lime or a squeeze of orange to make water more tempting, or to jazz up your routine. Also, drinking tea or juice and eating raw fruits and vegetables contribute to the hydration process. So, splash in the waves, swim in the sun, drink plenty of water and enjoy the summer fun! Email: sheila@lifeelemental.com Web: www.lifeelemental.com Follow me on Twitter: @lifeelemental