Do the seasons find you wishing your life away?
“It’s too cold – can’t wait for summer!”
“Ooo, it’s too hot!”
“Can’t do anything because of the heat!”
“When will fall get here?”
If there’s anything worth learning this year, appreciating the moment should be tops on our list.
When the heat index for your locale is in the triple digits even after dinner, just going for the evening stroll can be dangerous.
This summer has been very … summer-like.
I would not complain. Does no good anyway; and I do not want to wish this glorious season away.
But, since getting a health tracking device to wear on my wrist, being cognizant of my steps, activity levels, and sleep patterns has prompted me to be more consistently active throughout the day. By taking breaks from computer work, with activities ranging from mild stirring to a 10-15-minute exercise session while listening to the Beach Boys, has made me feel better.
My health tracker rewards me with a digital high-five when I’ve met the day’s step count. Such celebrations usually come during dinner walks around the waterfront areas of my town.
All had been going well until the heat index hit triple figures recently. Even a slow stroll will leave me drenched by the end of my evening constitutional.
Besides, walking slowly has never been a preference, as my former clinical students learned when trying to keep up with me in a hospital. I walk with a speed born from the purpose of getting somewhere.
Alas! Desire to walk meets brick wall of heat and humidity. There’s no fix to the heat results except to shower head to toe. With tresses that give Rapunzel a run for her money, washing my hair nightly has become an added chore.
Fine. Take a day off.
That didn’t work either. Tried that Sunday, claiming my day of rest, but got no rest that night as my arms and legs were rebelling from lack of exercise. I could feel the muscle fibers complaining – crying out to be challenged.
Geez.
With the heat index still pegging 100 the next evening, I knew it would not be safe to get so overheated walking outdoors. Fortunately, throughout the day, I had had multiple exercise sessions that provided ample arm and leg movements while still being indoors.
What have I been doing? Well, I took a page out of my book, Toolkit for Wellness. Pages 243-244, specifically.
Watch this video to see what can be accomplished in less than two minutes.
You can tell from my breathing; this short exercise will get you a good workout in no time at all. Adding even light 2-3 pound weights, will help engage the arm muscles for a more complete full body involvement.
NOTE: Before doing any form of exercise, always check with your healthcare provider to make sure what you are planning to do is wise based on your medical needs or limitations.
Be safe in this summer weather. My friends from down under can file this away for December! If you must be outdoors, aim for the early morning or late evening hours; wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing; carry water with you to stay hydrated, and listen to your body.
If feeling lightheaded, dizzy, nauseous, or if you have stopped perspiring – STOP. Head for the shade and get help.
If you feel challenged by the heat at all – stop then – before things get out of hand.
UPDATE ON COLD BREW POST – Even early morning gardening is a challenge. I head out to water my food sources even before that first cup of coffee, so by the time I get back inside, a cup of hot coffee is not appealing. The news is that I’ve shortened the time for my cold brew for iced coffee to 30 minutes! Perfect!
COMING UP: I will share reflections on the grand “Reluctant Farmer” turned “Happy Farmer” experiences. Don’t miss a single post by clicking on the subscribe button now. Remember to share this post with a friend so we can grow the Foodtalk4you tribe as we explore health one breath, one bite, one movement at a time.
In health –
Deidre