Summer is in full swing here in South Florida. School is out and outdoor activities are in abundance. There are so many wonderful ways to get the body moving in the summertime while also enjoying quality time with our families and friends. It’s equally as important to make sure you are taking care of yourself during this time of the year as well — especially in South Florida. 

The temperatures are high, the humidity is definitely present, and the sun is strong. It is crucial to pay attention to how you are feeling while spending time outdoors — and how your children are feeling too, if you are a parent or guardian. 

At Dr. Gena Chiropractic, your favorite family chiropractor in Plantation, we are all about being outside in the sunshine! Our number one chiropractor-approved summertime activity is just that: go outside! Being outside in the sunshine allows your body to absorb natural vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a large role in many functions of the body, including promoting healthy immune system function, supporting bone and teeth development, controlling how our bodies absorb calcium and phosphorus, regulating our mood, and even potentially helping with weight loss. 

Keep in mind, however, that although getting an adequate dose of daily vitamin D is important for a variety of reasons, please make sure to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water or other electrolyte-filled liquids. 

Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and find shade if the heat and humidity is beginning to become too much for you to handle. Double up on the SPF with UV protective clothing, and wear a hat and sunglasses.

Additionally, engaging in any kind of activity, both indoor and outdoor, that just gets the body moving is always beneficial. This helps to keep circulation functioning and flowing properly, and can prevent aches and pains that can occur after you have been sitting or standing for long periods of time. 

Here are a couple of Dr. Gena and Dr. Jordan’s tips for chiropractor-approved activities during the summer season:

Ditch your phone. Years ago, this might not have topped anyone’s list, but with the popularity of smartphones in recent times, it’s really important to do this! All of us, even young children, constantly have our faces buried into our phones. We forget to ‘stop and smell the roses’ because we are just so preoccupied with social media, emails, apps, and whatever else takes up our time. Put the phone down and do something outdoors like hiking, swimming, or just going for a nature walk and exploring. If you are looking for something a little more slower paced, check out Pickleball.

Go to the beach. Did you know that salt water actually calms the brain and nervous system? If things are starting to feel stressful, a trip to the beach might be just the thing you need to help ease any anxiety you’re experiencing. Exposing your bare feet to the sand can help calm you as well. This technique is called grounding or earthing, and can be done by placing your bare feet or laying down on the grass or gardening.

Earthing allows people to directly connect to the natural energies of the Earth. It can not only calm the mind, but has also been said to reduce pain, stress and anxiety, inflammation in the body, improve sleep and mental health, and boost the immune system. The idea stems from Indigenous times, when society believed that the Earth had powerful healing properties. In the 19th century, study’s about the Earth’s natural energies were found in Europe, and later, the concept made its way to America.

All of these activities can help maintain your physical and mental health, and the best additional supplement is, of course, chiropractic care. The team at Dr. Gena Chiropractic is here for you! Remember, your health is in your hands; our hands are here to help. Call our office at 954-417-5815 to schedule an appointment.