Solar Power: Wellness Tips for a Vibrant Summer
BY EMMA GEARY - JULY 11, 2023
Image courtesy of Wrinkleboss
The dog days of summer are here, and with it comes packed calendars, long days, and plenty of road trips. During the most vibrant and busy season of the year, it can be difficult to maintain a solid wellness routine. There are so many fun things to do - and we’re not wasting these three precious months indoors!
Lucky for you, we’ve got a few easy hacks to make your summer smoother than ever. We chatted with experts in everything from skincare to mental health to make the next few months a breeze.
Water, Water, Water!
Image courtesy of Watershed Spa
As an advocate for the healing properties of water and owner of Watershed Spa, Nell Rueckl reminds us of the importance of seeking out water this season in every form.
“Personally, I think summer wellness is hydrating, getting out in nature, and making sure you get in some water. As far as wellness goes, it’s really important to stay hydrated, pay attention to balance in your system, and feel your body melt in the warmth.” - Nell, Watershed Spa
Image courtesy of Perennial Acupuncture
Drawing upon the sacred traditions of Eastern Asian medicine, Nikki Fleck of Perennial Acupuncture shares, “In Chinese medicine summer is the season of the fire element and is related to the heart & small intestines. I often see clients with an increase in anxiety, irritability, and muscle tension. Try to spend some time near or in natural waters like a lake, stream, or ocean to provide a helpful reset for the system that helps to ground and cool us.”
While you’re in the water, indulge your inner child and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Nikki reminds us that, “this time of year I encourage people to take time for relationships that spark playfulness, laughter, and creativity. It's a great time of year to introduce cupping to help move blood, soothe the nervous system and relieve tension.”
Summer Skin Love
During summer our largest organ - the skin - is overexposed to elements such as sunlight, wind, and water. These are part of the joyful moments we all crave, but at the same time, these days often leave the skin feeling dry and tired.
As a lover of the outdoors and natural skincare expert, Bruna, the founder of local skincare brand Terrain Brazil, created her skincare line after a cancer diagnosis while pregnant with her second child. Her frustration with the lack of transparency around ingredients in products led her to the rainforests of Brazil, her home country, where she fell in love with the transformational effects of plant ingredients on her skin.
Bruna shares with us a few tips to make sure your skin is hydrated and happy all season long.
Image courtesy of Terrain Brazil
“Apply moisturizers generously to protect and restore the skin barrier. Use moisturizers that are rich and preferably oil-based and offer deep nourishment and soothing for the skin. Oils lock in moisture so are especially effective if applied after a refreshing bath or shower to leave the skin feeling hydrated for longer. A lotion bar is perfect for on-the-go moisture.”
“Use face products that are lightweight on the skin and formulated with ingredients that help to restore skin from sun damage such as oils with vitamin C and buriti. I suggest our LUZ face oil for a great morning start.”
“During summer getaways, when every inch of the carry-on is filled with swimsuits, kids’ gear, books, and whatever else makes a perfect summer break for you, don’t forget to pack your skin essentials. Solid moisturizers are lighter than traditional lotion pumps, plus they are more concentrated, sustainable, and most importantly, TSA-approved. We love this one.”
Be a Sunscreen Queen
Summer is the perfect time to unplug and spend time outside, whether it’s napping in a hammock or taking a long walk around the lake. As an aging expert, Nicole Kapaun and Wrinkleboss focus on prevention-oriented skin treatments to help you look and feel your best no matter your age. She emphasizes the importance of sunscreen as your first line of defense in your skincare routine year-round. “SPF has come a long way and is much more fun to use these days,” she shares, “I love the EltaMD UV AOX mist with coconut and vitamin C for boat days and outdoor workouts. I’d also recommend a super hydrating lotion as part of your routine. The SkinMedica Firm & Tone lotion is a personal favorite.”
Mental Health Matters
‘Tis the season for doing less! Just because it's nice outside doesn't mean you are obligated to jam-pack your schedule or commit to every event and outing. Remember to block time for your own personal space. If your employer offers summer Fridays, that half day is a gorgeous time to pencil in some R&R just for you!
Morgen of Sunday Therapy provides a few easy ways to keep yourself on track.
Image courtesy of Sunday Therapy
“Mix up your grocery routine with seasonal fruits and veggies. Drop into a local farmer's market, visit a berry farm, or try planting your own. If you don't have the ideal garden patch, try dropping a tomato plant into a pot to sit in a bright windowsill or create an indoor herb garden.”
“We aren't the only ones enjoying the season! Head out to a local dog park (even if you don't have a dog, you can still meet a furry friend!) or plan out a day trip (or adult night) at the MN Zoo.”
“Clear out your space for a clearer mind!”
“Change up your exercise routine. Drop into an outdoor yoga class, stretch in the grass, walk around your neighborhood, or find a shady hiking spot.”
No matter where this summer takes you, don’t forget to take time for yourself. Want to learn more about these local wellness experts? Visit our Collective Directory to support their businesses, and discover dozens more local artists and creators! Happy summer from LAB!
Emma Geary
Emma is a writer living in Minneapolis. When she's not checking out a new brewery with friends or blasting Taylor Swift in her car, you can find her dreaming up ideas as the Brand + Editorial Manager at LAB.
