By Dr. Rahim Habib ND

Summer is an active time of the year for individuals, families, and any kind of group. You may have a favourite outdoor sport, or favorite park for picnics or camping. Wherever you plan to be and whatever you plan to do, I have 6 healthy tips to help make sure you are ready for your summer.

1. Gear Up.

Make sure your clothing and accessories are up-to-date. Investing in light clothing to handle the heat is smart. Choose materials that wick moisture away from the body when you are outdoors for a long period of time, such as those labeled as containing ‘hydrophobic fibers’ or made with ‘charged’ cotton. Sunglasses are important as well to protect your eyes from glare and excess sunrays.

2. Deal with Allergy Reactions.

Herbs and supplements that can help reduce environmental allergy symptoms include quercetin, vitamin C, nettle leaf, butterbur and eyebright. You can find these in natural food stores, if you are unsure, check with your local naturopath. Calendula balm is also very helpful to keep on hand to help heal scratches, grazes and minor wounds; it is also very effective to ease insect stings and sunburn.

3. Limber Up.

It’s hard on your body if you go from the couch straight to the running track. Instead, develop a gradual program to get your body ready. For instance, focus on stretching for 10-15 minutes before your activity; start with a shorter duration of exercise or activity that you can build on week-to-week.

4. Don’t Forget to Adjust Your Schedule and Book Early.

If you typically have time set aside for family outdoor events, be the proactive family member that contacts the others to secure any needed bookings or reservations. Campsites book-up quite fast, so plan ahead and get the spot you know you will enjoy best.

5. Replace and Stock-Up on Water Filters.

Since you’ll need more water when the heat of summer arrives, make sure to change your filter at the recommended time and keep an extra filter on hand. Some companies make water filters that fit right into the water bottle itself so it’s easy to top-up on good quality filtered water.

6. Prevent Bug Bites.

Black-fly bites are painful, mosquito’s are also very uncomfortable to deal with and tick bites can be devastating such as those that cause Lyme Disease. Prevention is always the best solution. To prevent tick bites, avoid brushing against shrubs, sticking to the centre of paths and trails; avoid open footwear, wear long-sleeved shirts and tuck pants into your socks; do a skin and scalp inspection for ticks when you come back indoors. Essential oils that can help prevent mosquito and sand-fly bites include cinnamon oil, geranium oil, peppermint and lemongrass oil.