The summer is an exciting time for vacations, warm sunshine and maybe a delicious frozen daiquiri in hand (if you are of legal age, of course). The summer is also a perfect time to rethink the things you do to stay healthy.
When you take conscious, mindful steps to create healthy habits – you’ll feel good. Research continues to show that certain things (you know what they are!) help us feel healthy, more energized and ready to have fun. The same habits also keep the urologic system working well now and into the future.
Let’s talk about a few.
Dance, walk, bike, swim – all of it helps your body function the way it’s supposed to. The CDC recommends getting at least 150 minutes of exercise each week. That’s only about 22 minutes every day (but feel free to do much more). Use exercise as a chance to explore new places and have fun with friends. Exercise is not only critical for your heart, but it prevents disease, helps your body digest food better, helps you sleep, helps release stress and keeps your urologic system regular.
Sure! Indulge in a sweet, refreshing cocktail, soda or iced tea. At the same time, think about what your body needs. Water is – hands down – the most important drink to stay hydrated. Our bodies need about 8-10 cups of liquid to function well, with half of that being water. Not only will water help your urologic and cardiovascular system, it will help you maintain a healthy weight and make your skin look younger.
Sometimes we eat without thinking, especially when summer foods look great. But we may not feel so great after we’re done. Think about what you put in your mouth and whether it offers your body good nutrients and fiber. You’ll feel more energized and “lighter” when you eat fresh (not-processed) foods, and when you’re mindful about your meals.
Kegel exercises are done to strengthen and relax the pelvic floor muscles. These are the muscles that hold up your bladder and support the uterus and bowel (large intestine). Kegels help men and women who have problems leaking urine or stool (feces). They are done by tightening and releasing those important muscles. Try for 10x per day.
With all the great movement, eating and drinking you do– we hope you also get a relaxing summer-night’s sleep.