Live Your Best Summer Life

By audrey zona

The days are longer and warmer, there are tons of fresh fruits and veggies in the market, the schedule is a little more relaxed and, best of all, it’s prime travel season – gosh, I love summer! But for those of us who are on a lifetime fitness and health journey, being out of our comfort zones (and kitchens) can lead to confusion and bad decisions. A little knowledge goes a long way though, and there are many products and strategies that can help us live our best summer life, no matter where we are or what we’re doing.

The last thing we want to do during the summer is follow a rigid schedule or plan. So, don’t! But remember that a tiny bit of planning before you head out for vacation, a weekend away or even a day at the pool will ensure that you don’t find yourself at a snack bar window or fast-food drive-thru ordering food you know you don’t really want to eat. Turkey and lettuce wraps, pre-portioned packages of nuts, jerky or packages of almond butter with rice cakes will help your savory cravings. Protein bars, plant-based, keto cookies or a square of dark chocolate will cover you when you need a little hit of something sweet. All of these options can be easily tucked into your carry-on luggage for quick snacking in airports and on planes but are also portable snacks to eat on the beach or in the day camp carpool line.

Food isn’t the only thing to consider before

you pack your suitcase or beach bag. Selfcare is important every day of the year but especially now when the slower pace means you can take more time for yourself. Indulge in a bath with essential oils scented with lavender for relaxation and better sleep. Supplement the Vitamin D you’re getting from the sun with, what else? A Vitamin D supplement. And of course, you know how important staying hydrated is, but can it ever be said too much? Don’t forget that green tea or water infused with fruit or cucumber are great substitutes if you’re not a fan of plain water.

Summer is also a time to say “yes” to trying new things. If you’re traveling, make it a point to stop by the local farmer’s market and sample whatever’s fresh, maybe buy a few fruits or veggies to save for snacks later. You can also say yes to a new work out. Swim laps rather than taking that indoor spin class. Or, try stand up paddle boarding or kayaking one morning instead of following your regular walking route. If you decide to say “yes” to that offer of a backyard potluck picnic, try my Avocado, Jicama and Mango Salad that will have everyone begging for seconds (and the recipe).

Since you’re going to be saying yes to all those social invitations, it’s time to get your skin looking great too. You know the drill. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. Hats and umbrellas too. The other secret to younger looking skin is collagen. You can find it in all kinds of topical serums and creams but guess what? Foods like fatty fish, red, dark green or orange vegetables, berries, flax or hemp seeds, avocado and seaweed will all promote your body’s production of collagen. Probiotics, maybe the biggest beauty secret for clear glowing skin, can be found in foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, Kombucha or miso. No matter what you do this summer, make a point to try and do it with intention. Traveling? Soak up every second. Staying home? Embrace the peace and calm that come with being in a place you know so well. Pay attention to how your body is feeling and nourish it with nutritious foods, exercise that feels good and restorative sleep. Make sure to spend time outside and breathe deeply. Savor this time with friends and family. Summer is finally here. Let’s make the most of it!

Ingredients

• 1 head romaine lettuce, thinly sliced, about 8 cups • 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, cut into 1/2 inch cubes • 1/2 medium jicama, julienned or cut into 1/2 inch cubes • 1 mango, peeled, pitted and cut into 1/2 inch cubes

Dressing

• 1 1/2 Tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice • 1 1/2 Tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice • 1 Tablespoon raw honey • 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste) • freshly ground black pepper to taste • 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin • 3/4 cup cilantro leaves (lightly packed) • 1/2 cup unrefined, cold pressed extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. In a blender combine lime and lemon juices, honey, salt, pepper and cumin. Add the cilantro and blend. With the motor running, pour in the olive oil in a slow, steady stream and blend until emulsified. 2. Arrange the lettuce on a large platter and drizzle enough dressing to coat lightly. Place avocado in a bowl and gently toss with enough dressing to coat lightly. Arrange avocado on top of lettuce. Repeat with the jicama and mango.

The Homes, Hearts and Habitat Bergen 2022 Gala was held at Seasons. For more information, visit www.habitatbergen.org.

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