(6/2021) We all look forward to warm weather and being outside in the summer. A few things to consider before going out for your walk or run is how hot the temperature and the rays of the sun are. Protection from the sun is something we sometimes forget about especially at the beginning of the summer. We should be using sunscreen even during the cold winter months when we are spending time outside. Going in and out of the house or office doesn't seem like you are in the sun very long but even doing our daily routine can add up.

Our skin needs protection from the harmful rays of the sun each day. Some moisturizers contain SPF and help prevent the damage the sun may do to our skin. Now that the daylight is getting longer and we are working or exercising outside more it is important to take time to protect our skin. You may want to do a little research to find the best type of sunscreen for your skin.

There are so many on the market today and some offer more protection than others. Another thing we don't think about is reapplying the sunscreen often. Working outside, bike riding, jogging can cause you to sweat and you will need to reapply more often. Swimming is also a time we tend to forget about putting it on after getting out of the water.

Children need protection from the sun because of their sensitive skin. Getting a bad sunburn as a child can cause problems later in life. Getting our children in the habit of using sunscreen is a good way to protect them and yourself. Children remember better than adults sometimes and teaching them the importance of using sun protection early in life will hopefully stay with them throughout their life.

Hydration is another important thing to remember as summer approaches. Sometimes we are working outside and forget to drink water. By the time we feel thirsty we are already getting dehydrated. Taking a bottle of water with you while working in the yard, taking a walk or jogging or even just sitting outside is a good habit to get into.

Dehydration is a serious condition and can cause many symptoms you may not think of. Sometimes people may get confused, dizzy, sweaty or may pass out and not realize it is because they need water. This can happen to anyone at any age and can become a serious problem in the hot, humid summer.

Always keep a bottle of water with you or go in for a drink of water often while doing anything outside. While taking care of ourselves we also want to take care of the environment so you may want to invest in a good reusable water bottle that will keep your water cold and you will not be using the disposable plastic bottles. Children like having their own water bottle and this encourages them to drink more water while they are playing outside.

I know we have all heard everything I have said in this article many times but it never hurts to remind ourselves of the importance of sun protection and hydration. Since the weather will be getting warmer and the rays of the sun stronger, I thought it was a good time to remind everyone and encourage you to take care of yourselves while you are working or exercising outside. Remember to Keep Moving and take that sun screen and water with you everyday.