Over the last few weeks, India has received various heatwave warnings¹. With the temperatures rising across the country, India has witnessed one of the hottest summers in years². The soaring temperature has not only led to people feeling extremely fatigued all the time, but also falling seriously ill. With the weather changing drastically, it is necessary for people to focus on the importance of good health. A balanced diet comprising of nutritious food, along with focus on physical fitness can go a long way in helping one maintain overall health. While most of us live hectic lives, it is extremely essential to take care of our health too.

What are some ways in which we can focus on ensuring we stay healthy and safe this summer?

1. Summer Tip #1 Stay hydrated

The heat can dehydrate your body easily, leading to fever, muscle cramps, dizziness, and various other health disorders. To ensure that you do not end up falling ill due to dehydration, keep sipping water throughout the day. Carry a bottle of water with yourself wherever you go and make sure you have about 2-3 litres of water every day.

2. Summer Tip #2 Stay indoors during peak hours

We all know that the morning sun is good for us. However, as the day progresses, the sun rays get harsher. If you like to exercise to ensure good physical fitness, it is a good idea to workout early in the morning or post sunset. Make sure you try to stay indoors as much as possible. Avoid moving around during peak hours, unless it’s really important. A part of focusing on the importance of good health also includes staying indoors and keeping yourself protected from the scorching sun rays.

3. Summer Tip #3 Wear light, comfortable clothes

The simplest and yet the most effective thing you can do during summers is to wear loose, comfortable clothes. Soft cotton material over synthetic blends like polyester is preferable. It is also a good idea to wear lighter colours as they tend to absorb lesser heat. Whites and pastels are a great choice.

4. Summer Tip #4 Control your alcohol and caffeine intake

One of the most important things to keep in mind is to keep a tab on the food you eat and the beverages you consume; especially during summers. If you are someone who loves his/her drinks or enjoys a cup of coffee every now and then, you may want to cut down your alcohol and caffeine consumption. Alcohol, caffeine, and fizzy drinks can provide temporary satisfaction but will eventually lead to a lot of dehydration. Try infusing the water you drink with natural ingredients like basil, lemon, ginger, and more that are good for your body.

5. Summer Tip #5 Cover your eyes and your head when you step out

The importance of good health isn’t just restricted to ensuring great physical fitness and consuming nutritious food. It is also important to make sure that you are protected from the harsh rays of the sun at all times. We spoke about wearing loose and comfortable clothes to prevent excessive sweating, but it is also necessary to keep your head and eyes covered. Migraines, eye strains, heat strokes are a common occurrence during summers. With the heat rising to an all-time high this year, it is more than important to follow all possible precautions. Carry a cotton scarf, wear sunglasses, and keep a bottle of water handy when you are travelling.

6. Summer Tip #6 Exercise regularly

What better way to ensure good physical fitness than to get your body moving? Wake up early and go for a run or a walk, hit the gym, practice yoga – practice whatever form of exercise you are comfortable with. The moral of the story being, keep your body moving. As long as you are active, your body tends to have more energy to fight health issues.

7. Summer Tip #7 Get enough rest

While you work on changing your diet, your exercise routines, and keeping yourself well-hydrated, make sure you do not forget to get enough rest. The harsh summer rays can lead to exhaustion, leaving you more tired than usual. Plan your schedule in a way that you get to catch up on enough sleep during the night.

8. Summer Tip #8 Munch on some fresh nutritious food

Summers are the time when we reach out for fresh, healthy food. Maybe it’s the heat or simply the sight of fresh fruits and vegetables that makes you want to grab healthy food. Here are some nutritious foods that you can munch on while ensuring they are good for your health and delicious too – watermelon, corn, tomatoes, blueberries, cherries, and raspberries among others.

As you take all possible steps towards good health, it is also important to ensure that you are financially secured and protected in case any uncertainty arises. The easiest way to do that is to get an effective term plan – like the iProtect Smart Term Plan by ICICI Prudential Life. The plan offers life cover^` that provides financial security to our loved ones in case of an unfortunate event. It also offers coverage for COVID-19 life claims^* as well as 34 life threatening diseases with the critical illness rider^# (optional).