Summer is back in Green Country!

It’s summer in Green Country, y'all!!

Here we are, almost July, and it’s just now starting to get hot. We've had a ton of early rain due early on, so that has helped to stave off the usual heat. Overall, it’s been pretty nice, if wet and humid, but the hotter days are definitely headed our way.

i say get out in it.

What are you doing this summer? Get out into the heat and the sun. It’s good for you, both physically and mentally. Your body will thank you.

Need some ideas? Summer activities are numerous. Add your own inspiring ideas in the comments below.

• Go for a walk.
• Go hiking.
• Go to the lake.
• Go for a bike ride.
• Go dig in the garden.
• Go sit under a tree.
• If you're here in Tulsa, go down to Riverside — there’s lot to do down there in the areas that are free from construction.

Sweating is a good thing

Go out into the sun and get sweaty.  Sweating works your body’s autonomic system in a different way. Sweating is your internal cooling system and you should give it a good run every once in a while. Just like the central air system at home gets yearly maintenance, so should your sweat glands. Plus, there is a bonus — you get to target your internal thermostat, raise your metabolism a little bit and work out your immune system. This gives your body a chance to kill off whatever could be lurking in there that may cause an illness or disease.

Use common sense when you’re out there

• Sunscreen is a good idea, but use an SPF of 30. Anything higher starts blocking out the Vitamin D. Also, find a sunscreen that doesn’t have a lot of metals in it, as these can be absorbed through the skin into the body.
• Alternate being in the sun with lots of shade time. (20 minutes of sun exposure at a time) Wear a light colored, breathable hat if you have one. If you wear tank tops and shorts to get the maximum absorption of Vitamin D, then you can cut back on the Vitamin D supplements for a few weeks.
• If you’re not used to being out in the sun, avoid heatstroke by gradually increasing your exposure. Start with 15-minute intervals every few hours for a few days each week. Take a break from your work space and go stand in the parking lot.
• Most impostantly, HYDRATE! Drink lots of water. When you sweat, you’re losing valuable H2O at a rate faster than you may realize. Water is your friend. Not pop or ice tea or coffee. Also, stay away from excessive alcohol consumption as this will DEHYDRATE you dangerously fast.

Well, I'm done typing. I’m headed outside!

peace and love,
chuck