Ways to stay active, healthy this summer

By Kayla Mercedes Lee

Staying healthy during the Summer involves taking care of your physical, mental, and overall well-being while enjoying the seasonal changes.

MHHC is a healthcare organization in NYC that is constantly finding ways to keep its community healthy all-year round. However, it is especially important to cultivate healthy habits as the weather transitions from a warm Spring to a hot Summer. Our bodies require extra care in order to properly adjust and adapt to the change of season and avoid potential health issues such as a change of season cold and the flu. MHHC inspires health in its community through education and events related to health and wellness.

Here are some ways to stay healthy this Summer:

1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, especially in hot weather. We encourage individuals to carry a water bottle and consume fluids even when they are not feeling thirsty. Make your water fun and avoid sugary beverages such as soda and juice by infusing your water with berries, citrus fruits, or cucumbers and herbs such as mint.

2. Protect yourself from the sun: Advise individuals to wear sunscreen with a high SPF rating and reapply it every two hours, especially when spending time outdoors. We encourage everybody to wear protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses, and seek shade during the peak sun hours.

3. Practice safe outdoor activities: Promote physical activity but emphasize the importance of safety. We encourage individuals to exercise during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening, to avoid heat exhaustion or heatstroke. We remind you all to use appropriate safety gear when participating in sports or outdoor activities.

4. Maintain a balanced diet: Emphasize the importance of a nutritious diet, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Encourage individuals to enjoy the abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables available during the summer. Visit the Morris Heights Farmstand to pick up some fresh, local, and seasonal high quality produce. It is open every Wednesday from 11am-3pm at the corner of W Burnside and University Ave.

5. Be mindful of food safety: Educate individuals about proper food handling and storage to prevent foodborne illnesses. We emphasize the need to wash hands frequently, keep perishable foods refrigerated, and avoid cross-contamination during food preparation.

6. Prevent insect-borne illnesses: Provide information on protection against mosquito bites, particularly in areas where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent. We encourage individuals to use insect repellents, wear protective clothing, and eliminate standing water sources to reduce mosquito breeding.

7. Practice water safety: Highlight the importance of water safety when swimming or participating in water activities. Encourage individuals to swim in designated areas with lifeguards, use proper flotation devices when needed, and be cautious of potential hazards in natural bodies of water. MHHC partners with the YMCA at the Le Central and Northeast Bronx locations, where you can find swimming classes for all ages.

8. Prioritize mental health: Remind individuals to take care of their mental well-being during the summer. Encourage them to maintain a balanced lifestyle, engage in activities they enjoy, connect with loved ones, and seek professional help if needed. MHHC offers behavioral health services—to make an appointment today call 718716-4400.

9. Stay updated on vaccinations: Promote awareness of the importance of vaccinations and staying up to date with immunizations.

Encourage individuals to consult their healthcare providers to ensure they have received all necessary vaccinations, such as those for influenza or travel-related diseases. Many summer camps and programs require vaccinations by state of law—to schedule an appointment for your child to get vaccinations, call 718-716-4400.

10. Seek medical care when necessary: Remind individuals to seek medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms or conditions during the summer. Provide information on available healthcare services and emphasize the importance of early intervention for prompt treatment. MHHC’s urgent care center, Omega Health Urgent Care, is the best place to visit for any non-emergency health issues that may come up. Visit Omega Health Urgent Care at 1 W Burnside Ave, Bronx, NY 10453 Tuesday to Sunday from 8am8pm: for more information call 929-238-7400.

Maintaining good health at the beginning of the Summer sets the stage for a vibrant and active season, full of fun. It allows us to enjoy the benefits of the outdoors, nourish our bodies with seasonal foods, manage allergies, support mental well-being, and prepare ourselves for the upcoming summer months. By prioritizing health during this time, we can make the most of the opportunities spring has to offer and enhance our overall quality of life. Stay tuned for more information on the annual National Healthcare Center Week celebration hosted by MHHC every August on our website mhhc.org or by following us on Instagram and Twitter @ mhhc_inc, Facebook @Morris Heights Health Center. We post community events, health and wellness related resources, and all updates related to MHHC and the community we serve daily.