Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift shares five easy tips to help prepare your mind and body for summer.
It’s that time of year again. Spring has sprung and soon summer will be sung.
If you’re still trying to wake up from winter hibernation, you’ll benefit from these five tips to help shake it off:
One, get moving. It’s time to get out your active wear and explore the great outdoors. Being physically active not only helps maintain a healthy body weight, but improves energy levels and overall feelings of wellbeing. Whether you add a daily stroll along the river into your routine, cycle to work instead of drive, join a yoga class or the gym, getting active will refresh and rejuvenate your body for summer. Just 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every day will deliver noticeable health benefits, and 60 minutes can further reduce your risks of cancer and other chronic diseases.
Two, nourish your body. Summer brings an array of fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables to satisfy the hungriest stomach. Start by taking a look at what’s in your trolley the next time you’re at the supermarket. Are there sufficient fruits, veggies and wholegrains to sustain and nourish your body? If not, add some colour to your diet. In Queensland we are fortunate to have delicious tropical options including mangos, pineapples and an array of berries. Many of these seasonal fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants. Antioxidants can help protect against sickness and disease and put the spring back into your step. Aim for at least two pieces of fruit and five serves of vegetables a day.
Three, rejuvenate. Winter can sometimes leave us feeling a little dreary and out of shape. This month, why not take a ‘daycation’ – focussing on wellbeing. Unplug your phone and completely switch off. Find a relaxing spot, let go of any worries and focus on positive thoughts. Becoming mindful and reconnecting with your inner self can help energise and inspire. Mindfulness has been proven to be key to happiness. Being able to focus your attention on the present moment and accepting it can help bring feelings of joy even on the most stressful days.
Four, spring clean. Most of us have piles of stuff stored in the back of cupboards that we no longer need or use. Have a spring clean before summer and remove unnecessary clutter from your home – you’ll be amazed at how decluttering can increase happiness and boost productivity. If the task of a spring clean seems overwhelming, start small by tackling just one room or cupboard each week. When deciding on even the most basic items, ask yourself if that item adds to your overall happiness. If not, it might be time to pass it on.
Five, find a new hobby. What have you always dreamed of doing? Whether it’s planting a garden, starting a blog or taking up photography lessons, this summer, make time in your schedule for something new. Hobbies can bring a renewed sense of excitement and fulfilment to your life and give you a sense of purpose. They also encourage you to take a break and spend time doing something that you enjoy – a small excursion to escape ordinary stresses. Challenge yourself and try something new.
Follow these five tips and shake it off in time for summer!
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at www.cancerqld.org.au or call Cancer Council on 13 11 20.
For more information, please contact:
Laura McKoy, Senior Media Advisor, Cancer Council Queensland.