We are (finally) on the brink of the warm season! As temperatures rise and the sun makes its appearance, barbecues and patios begin to become part of the landscape. While some people welcome this, many anticipate the temptations that come with the summer season. Cocktails, barbecues, ice cream, chips... what if summer was a source of joy rather than guilt?
Here are three tips to enjoy the summer while maintaining healthy habits.
1. Allow Yourself to Eat All the Foods Available to You
This doesn't mean you'll eat poorly all summer! By putting all foods on an equal footing, formerly “forbidden” foods will no longer seem so appealing. Have you ever forbidden a child from doing something? What was their reaction? Often, the child becomes even more tempted by what has been banned. Why? Because the forbidden is attractive! The same phenomenon occurs when a person refrains from eating foods because they don’t meet certain criteria. Their desire for these foods increases. Instead of setting rigid rules and categorizing foods as good or bad, allow yourself to eat everything and focus on what you really want.
Choose foods that bring you happiness and make you feel good physically and mentally, while respecting the valuable signals your body sends you.
2. Savour Seasonal Foods
To savour a food is to be mindful of its texture and flavours. It’s about focusing on the present moment and each bite rather than constantly preparing the next one. It’s about enjoying the mealtime, the people sharing it with us, and the sunshine that makes everything so much more enjoyable.
Summer is the ideal season to learn to savour foods, as a multitude of seasonal fruits and vegetables are available in public markets. They are fresh, naturally sweet, and packed with nutrients. Highlight them in salads, raw veggie plates, homemade pizzas, vegetable skewers, or fruit platters. And to stay hydrated, why not flavour your water by adding fruits, vegetables, and herbs? Check out these infused water recipes for inspiration!
3. Engage in a Sport You Love
It's often said that the best sport for your health is the one you prefer. It’s true! Moreover, good weather makes a variety of outdoor sports possible. Walking, running, yoga, baseball, tennis, soccer, biking, rollerblading, swimming, basketball... in Quebec, we are fortunate to have outdoor facilities nearby to enjoy sports in the sun. Outdoor enthusiasts? Try hiking, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and mountain biking. Set specific and realistic goals and move for the joy of it.
On that note, have a great summer!
