SUMMER medicine
DISCOVER WHY SUNSHINE AND RISING TEMPERATURES ARE JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED
It’s great to be outdoors! The warmer weather is exactly the sort of encouragement you need to get outside and appreciate nature.
“Time spent outdoors, whether it’s walking, going to the beach or cycling, helps reduce stress levels, improves your mental health and reduces inflammation,” naturopath Melanie Armstrong says. “Feeling at one with nature is a rejuvenating experience that improves clarity of mind, focus and promotes creativity.”
Eating well is easier
Summer’s heat brings on cravings for light, fresh foods like fruit and salads. It’s also the time when many nutritious fruits – including cherries, berries and watermelon – are ripe for eating.
“All of the delicious fruits and veges in season are full of antioxidants, which help to slow down the ageing process and increase immunity,” says Melanie.
“Opting for these lighter meals can also help with weight loss, which is very good for mental health as well.”
Exercise for everyone
If you’re looking for a kick-start to become more active, the season’s longer days could well hold the answer.
“Most people tend to hibernate during the winter months and it’s often harder to find the motivation to exercise when it’s cold,” tells Melanie.
But when it’s warmer outside, people are naturally more inclined to get up earlier and take a walk, go for a swim or make the most of the later sunsets by heading out for an evening stroll.
“Exercise not only reduces your risk of heart disease but it releases endorphins, which make you feel happier and more positive,” she adds.
That healthy glow
As long as you slap on some sunscreen, the production of vitamin D via sun exposure can be terrific for your skin.
Not only will it clear up any dryness and chapping from the winter months, but vitamin D can also help relieve skin conditions including psoriasis and eczema. This is because sunlight can slow skin-cell growth and scaling.
Just be aware of the time of the day and the UV index before heading out.
“It’s best to get out in the morning or the afternoon so you avoid the harsh midday sun. And don’t forget to cover up as too much heat and sunburn can make some skin conditions worse,” advises Melanie.
Ease stiff joints
Warmer weather has been proven to help reduce the stiffness and soreness that comes with arthritic pain.
A study by Tufts University in the US found that every
10°C drop in temperature corresponded with an increase in arthritic pain. It also found low temperatures and rain can contribute to joint pain.
“There are many studies that have shown arthritic pain reduces when it’s warm and dry,” explains Melanie.
“Being more active in summer also loosens up your muscles and joints, which in turn prevents stiffness.”
Get out and about
When the sun is shining, people are more inclined to socialise. Whether it’s a family barbecue, a picnic or taking the grandkids to the park, any form of interaction is great for mental health.
“Research has shown social connections are important, especially for people who live alone,” says Melanie.
“Not only will it put a smile on your face, but it helps reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety or depression.”
It doesn’t have to be a big event, either – just meeting a friend for coffee can really boost your mood.
Our inbuilt detox
While sweat stains may prove a bit embarrassing, perspiration is a healthy, vital part of the body’s natural detoxification process. It’s also the body’s key mechanism for regulating internal temperature, which prevents you from overheating and hyperventilation.
“Perspiration opens your pores and clears out toxins and bacteria,” adds Melanie. “Just remember that you’re losing water from your body, so it’s important to stay well hydrated.”
Drink up!
On hotter days, it’s normal to frequently reach for your water bottle, however boosting your fluid intake has benefits beyond just quenching your thirst.
“Drinking enough water to keep your body fully hydrated will ward off headaches, help cure sunburn, drive away fatigue or brain fog and put you in a sunnier mood,” says Melanie.
If you struggle drinking plain water, just add a dash of lemon, mint or herbs for a little more flavour.
Stay in the moment
When the sun’s out and everything’s looking beautiful, it can be uplifting to focus on the here and now and the beauty of nature.
“When the sun is shining and you are at the beach or the park, it’s easier to live in the moment and enjoy your surroundings, rather than focus on your worries,” tells Melanie.
“Being more mindful has been proven to reduce stress levels, and ward off anxiety and depression.”
Research by the University of Oxford shows mindfulnessbased therapy leads to a 58% reduction in anxiety levels, a 57% diminishing of depression and 40% lower stress levels.
Explore new horizons
Whether it’s a new yoga or Pilates class, volunteering or overhauling the garden, the warmer weather can increase motivation to try something new.
This can be great for your brain, mental health and you might even make new friends.
Melanie says, “Getting out of your comfort zone and challenging yourself mentally is great for rejuvenating and building more brain cells.”