Summer is just around the corner, and with it, the long-awaited vacation! For some, it’s time for a getaway or a trip, while for others it’s time to stay home and enjoy the peace and quiet of a slower pace, away from the hustle and bustle of this busy time of year. Whatever your preference, one thing is certain: summer is a time for relaxation, renewal and well-being. It’s the perfect time to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally, to make the most of this sunny season. Here are five wellness tips for a great summer vacation! STAY HYDRATED As we all know, staying hydrated is essential, especially with the onset of summer heat. In the bright sunshine, it’s easy to forget how vital this is when we’re wrapped up in our vacation activities. Water is the preferred choice over any other beverage. Remember to carry your reusable water bottle with you at all times. Just the bottle itself is a visual reminder to drink regularly. Some people find drinking water boring. To make it more enticing, I like to enhance it naturally with whatever I have on hand: slices of citrus fruit, strawberries or cucumber, fresh herbs, ginger… Basically, there are plenty of ways to make your water delicious. And to add a refreshing touch, don’t hesitate to add ice cubes to your glass. EAT FRESH Summer calls for a lighter, more refreshing diet, in line with summer temperatures. At this time of year, our bodies appreciate fresh foods that bring vitality and well-being. This is why it’s ideal to turn to seasonal delights, stocking up on fresh, local fruits and vegetables. When we talk about summer food, we’re also talking about juicy, tasty flavors that nourish both the heart and the mind. And let’s not forget that water isn’t just for drinking, it’s for eating too! Especially in hot weather or on scorching hot days, it’s a good idea to opt for watery, thirst-quenching foods. Not only does this provide the necessary daily water intake — something that shouldn’t be overlooked — but it also contributes to a healthy diet. Just think of lettuces, cucumbers, radishes, tomatoes, strawberries, and melons. To sum up, it’s quite simple: this summer, add some freshness on your plate! THE AFTER-SWIM RITUAL AND CAPSULES FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH SUPPORT With summer heat comes the cooling pleasure of a swim. Nothing is quite as invigorating as a dip in the pool. But once you’re out of the water, one little trick I like best for maintaining both comfort and well-being is changing into a dry swimsuit! Staying in a wet bikini bottom can be quite unpleasant, and not really ideal for sensitive areas. Prolonged dampness and the sensitive pH of this area don’t always go well together, if you know what I mean. To avoid this, I always have two bikini bottoms on hand. That way, I can change quickly and let the other one dry. It’s simple, and it can save a lot of trouble! And for those who want to further pamper their feminine health, probiotics can also be valuable allies. As well as supporting digestive health, it has been shown that they can play a key role in supporting the immune system. In fact, Bio-K+ has just launched a long-awaited new product! New probiotic capsules specially designed for women are now available (Bio-K+’s Women’s Health Probiotic Capsules). A formula designed to promote a healthy vaginal balance, help support urinary tract microbiota, and alleviate occasional vaginal discomfort such as itchiness, burning, odor, and discharge. With these tips, you’re all set to enjoy your summer vacation, worry-free! PLAN YOUR ACTIVITIES When traveling, taking inspiration from local habits can sometimes offer us valuable tips for making the most of our vacation. In Spain, for example, the siesta — the afternoon nap — is a sacred tradition, with many businesses closing in the afternoon to allow locals to rest during the hottest hours. A great idea to adopt, don’t you think? Long live the siesta! And on those hot days, you might want to plan your day accordingly. Get up early to enjoy the crisp morning air and explore your surroundings while the heat is still bearable. Book more physical activities or ones in direct sunlight for the first few hours of the day. When the sun reaches its peak and temperatures soar, opt for activities in the shade or in air-conditioned areas. Think museums, art galleries, or simply strolling along reading a good book in a café while sipping on a refreshing beverage. After all, who wants to spend their vacation with sunstroke and all its unpleasant side effects? Vacations are meant for relaxing and unwinding. It’s best to avoid the inconvenience and make the most of those well-earned restful moments! SUN PROTECTION, HAT, CAP, SHADES, AND STUFF! The beach isn’t the only place to protect your nose from the sun! Even a casual tour of a historic monument can quickly turn into a sunburn. And it can hit hard when it does. So, get out your sun protection arsenal first thing in the morning! Start the day by applying an effective sunscreen. To achieve the perfect sun-conscious-tourist look, a hat or cap is a must, not to mention sunglasses to protect your eyes. That way, your day will be even more radiant, literally. And, at the end of the day, remember to apply a skin care product to nourish your skin. Personally, I prefer a good aloe vera gel that moisturizes and soothes the skin after prolonged exposure to the sun. Now you’re ready to face the sun in style, without being the butt of vacation jokes!
