6 health and wellness tips for the summer

Here are some of our top tips for keeping on top form during these lovely summer months. Just incorporating a few of these small positive changes to your routine can make a big overall difference to your health and wellbeing so here they are...

1 - Stay hydrated

Ensure to drink lots of water during these hotter months. You should aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. This helps keep your kidneys flush out toxins. If water doesn’t appeal then try infusing your water with fruits and vegetables such as with berries, slices of lemons or limes, or put in chunks of cucumber. 

2 - Catch some vitamin D

Summer is the time to increase your Vitamin D levels. We are lucky because our bodies are able to naturally produce the vitamin provided we have some exposure to the sun. A rough guide is that 15-30minutes in the sun is adequate exposure to produce Vitamin D. Don’t forget, after you’ve had your period of Vitamin D absorption, to slap on the sun tan lotion. Vitamin D is all well and good but burnt skin is no fun!

3 - Get outdoors

Spending too much time indoors, something we’re all probably guilty of, is unhealthy for the body, mind, and spirit. Now that the weather is nice, it’s crucial that you make the most of it by heading out to your local park, outdoor swimming pool, head down to the beach, or simply take a book and have a read outside.

4 - Daily exercise

Now that the weather is warm, you have no excuse to not get out there and get fit. Hiking, biking, and cycling are all great ways to feel the burn and get your heart rate up. Joining a gym (and actually going) is also a great way to get fitter and we have a great gym on campus here at UCL, Bloomsbury Fitness. If the gym isn’t for you then try focussing on the little positive changes you can make for example, getting off one station early and walking the remaining part of your journey or simply taking the stairs instead of the lift.

5 - Increase your fruit and vegetable intake

With summer comes all the lovely seasonal fruit and veg available at your fingertips. Try visiting farmers markets to have a fun and rustic foodie experience. The freshly grown produce from these markets tends to have a lower carbon footprint as it’s journeyed fewer miles to reach your plate. Not only are you helping the planet’s wellness by doing this but you’re nourishing your body with the nutrients and minerals it needs.

6 - Create a regular wellness schedule

It may be the summer holiday for some of you, but holiday or not, there should be no vacation when it comes to maintaining your health. If you haven’t already got one, use these warmer months to create a wellness routine which will help you maintain your health and happiness, long into the colder months. Don’t be afraid to try something new. Yoga? Mediation? Squats? Have a go, who knows, you might just feel great because of it.

Adam Vidler, Communications and Projects Adviser, UCL Student Support and Wellbeing