If you haven’t experienced an anxiety attack, you might not know the symptoms: clammy hands, heart pounding in your chest, your breath coming in short gasps, and an all-consuming sense of dread consuming you. Anxiety had been an unwelcome companion, interfering with work, relationships, and overall quality of life. Many who suffer from it try therapy, medications, and meditation, but just can’t find lasting relief. continue reading
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, there’s no denying the allure of summer. Whether you’re planning beach vacations, poolside hangouts, or outdoor adventures, spending time in the sun can lift your mood, boost vitamin D levels, and create lifelong memories. But with all that fun comes a serious responsibility: protecting your skin.
Sun exposure, especially during the intense summer months, is the number one cause of premature aging and the leading cause of skin cancer. The good news? With a few smart habits and the right tools, you can enjoy the sunshine safely. Here’s how to protect your skin from harmful UV rays without sacrificing your summer plans.
Let’s start with the golden rule: wear sunscreen daily, even if it’s cloudy or you’re spending time indoors near windows. UV rays can penetrate clouds and glass, meaning your skin is still exposed.
Don’t forget: Ears, feet, hands, back of the neck, and scalp (especially along hair parts) are commonly overlooked spots.
Clothing is your first physical barrier between your skin and the sun. The more skin you cover, the better protected you are.
Many brands now offer fashionable, lightweight summer clothing with built-in sun protection that’s perfect for the pool, beach, or hiking trail.
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, schedule outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce exposure.
There’s a persistent myth that a “base tan” can protect you from sunburns. The truth? Any tan is a sign of skin damage. Tanning increases your risk of premature aging, sunspots, and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Indoor tanning beds are particularly harmful. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, people who use tanning beds before age 35 increase their risk of melanoma by 75%. Want that summer glow? Choose a sunless tanning lotion or spray tan. These products provide color without harmful UV exposure.
While sun protection is mostly external, your body’s internal health plays a role in how well your skin responds to sun exposure.
Even with the best sun protection habits, early detection of skin changes is key. Get into the habit of performing monthly skin self-exams, looking for new or changing moles, freckles, or spots. Use the “ABCDE” rule as a guide:
Additionally, schedule a full-body skin check with a dermatologist once a year, or more often if you have a history of sunburns, tanning bed use, or skin cancer in the family.
Young skin is extremely sensitive and requires extra care.
Sun protection isn’t about avoiding the outdoors; it’s about being smart and proactive. By using sunscreen correctly, dressing wisely, and staying aware of your exposure, you can soak up the joys of summer while keeping your skin healthy and radiant for years to come. So, this summer, as you grab your beach towel or hiking boots, don’t forget the SPF. After all, your skin is with you for life, so how will you protect it?
Summer is the season of abundance with vibrant colors at the farmer’s market, the sweet smell of fresh herbs, and the juicy crunch of sun-ripened produce. It’s the perfect time to lean into seasonal eating, where ingredients are at their flavorful peak and need little to no fuss to shine. Whether you’re cooking for a backyard BBQ, a lazy Sunday brunch, or a solo weeknight dinner, these top three recipes showcase the best summer ingredients in delicious and refreshing ways so let’s dive into the tastes of summer.
Star Ingredients: Heirloom tomatoes, burrata cheese, fresh basil.
There’s nothing quite like a vine-ripened tomato in the heart of summer. Paired with creamy burrata and fresh basil oil, this salad is both rustic and elegant. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a light lunch.
Why it works: The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the burrata, while basil oil adds aromatic freshness. It’s the taste of a sunny Italian garden on a plate.
Star Ingredients: Fresh peaches, sweet corn, limes.
If you’ve never grilled a peach, prepare for a revelation. The heat caramelizes its sugars, intensifying the sweetness and adding a subtle smokiness. Combined with juicy corn and zesty crema, this taco is summer in every bite.
Why it works: This recipe layers smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that celebrate peak-season produce. It’s also highly customizable—try adding grilled chicken or black beans for extra protein.
Star Ingredients: Cucumbers, avocado, fresh dill.
When the mercury rises, nothing cools you down quite like a chilled soup. This one is ultra-refreshing, creamy without being heavy, and packed with nutrients thanks to the combination of cucumber and avocado.
Why it works: Cucumbers bring a refreshing crunch, avocado provides silky richness, and lemon juice brightens it all up. It’s the perfect no-cook meal for steamy afternoons.
Seasonal eating isn’t just about taste, it’s also better for your body and the planet. In summer, our bodies naturally crave hydration, lighter meals, and foods rich in water and nutrients. Many summer ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and peaches are high in water content and antioxidants, keeping you cool and energized. Plus, buying in-season and local produce supports small farms, reduces carbon emissions from transport, and often means you’re getting food at its nutritional peak.
You don’t need a complicated recipe or fancy tools to enjoy the beauty of summer produce. These three dishes celebrate simplicity, freshness, and the joy of eating with the seasons. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a garden party, or just enjoying dinner on the porch, these recipes are sure to make your summer meals memorable.
