As many of you are aware, we naturopaths are very in touch with nature no matter the season. From hiking in the woods to mountain biking I am always enjoying what Mother Nature has to offer. This is especially true during the summer. But with the increase in temperature and long hours of daylight, problems can arise during the summer months: from getting lost, to dehydration, loss of energy, and sustaining injuries. So in order to work on preventive medicine, please consider these six steps for your summer outdoor excursions.
- Be a Boy/Girl Scout and Prepare. Make sure you have a location in mind. Make sure someone (who is not with you) knows where you are going and when you should be returning. Pack a light raincoat, wear sunscreen and apply natural bug repellent, –to help with any discomfort and avoid different diseases such as Lyme.
- Act like a human and be Intelligent. Try to ride/hike during the cooler times of day (morning and before sunset). Wear the proper clothing so your sweat wicks away.
- Be a camel and Hydrate. Make sure you are hydrating before, during and after your ride. A simple trick is that you should be drinking enough water so that your urine is clear.
- Eat like you mean it. Drink a protein shake before your ride/hike and bring Unibars with you on your trip. You will be surprised how much more water, electrolytes, and calories you will be using in the warmer months.
- Enjoy the beautiful weather and be kind to other outdoors enthusiasts. Make sure you respect the right of way of hikers, runners, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. Also, share a smile and a wave to people —in the event of an emergency they will be your first responders.
- After your ride/hike stretch, do a tick check, shower, and eat a meal Right 4 Your Type to fill your energy reserves for tomorrow’s adventure. If you do find a tick remove it properly.
Safety First
If you are concerned about tick-borne disease, save the tick by placing it in a plastic bag with a damp cloth and bring it to me for testing at Personalized Natural Medicine or the Center of Excellence.
Take it from me, one who grew up in the outdoors– please be smart and plan ahead.
From hiking in the forest, kayaking down rivers, and riding up mountains I have seen many different situations, which could have, be avoided with proper planning. Please make an appointment today to learn more about natural medicine and what it can do for you.
