August 5, 2025

August is upon us and a beautiful month to enjoy the best of summer while setting mindful habits before fall. Whether you’re soaking up the last of vacation days ☀️ or kicking off the 📚 back-to-school season, this month offers opportunities to refresh your health habits. Here’s some helpful tips to kick off the month in a healthy direction. Small changes equal a big difference.

First, eat seasonally:

August is a peak month for fresh, local produce. Incorporating seasonal fruits and vegetables not only supports your immune system but also enhances your meals with vibrant flavors. Enjoy local produce like blueberries, peaches, tomatoes and sweet corn. Make a colorful summer salad with mixed greens, grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado and a splash of lemon vinaigrette.

Second, move outdoors:

Take advantage of the warm weather by being active outside. Exercise in natural light boosts your vitamin D and mood. As little as 20 minutes a day outdoors can reduce stress and improve heart health. Take morning walks, stretch at the park or unwind with an evening stroll.

Third, stay hydrated:

Hot, humid days increase your need for fluids. Aim for water-rich foods and drinks throughout the day. Listen to your body’s thirst cues, and if you’re fatigued or getting headaches, it might be time to drink up.

Drinking clean water is essential, but during the summer, when we’re sweating more from hiking, running around with kids or just being outdoors, our bodies need extra hydration support. This is where fruit delivers big. Seasonal favorites like watermelon, strawberries, grapefruit, cantaloupe and peaches are more than 90 percent water and loaded with potassium, fiber and powerful phytonutrients that support energy, detoxification and digestion. And nature’s pretty smart – the most hydrating fruits just so happen to be in peak season when we need them most. So yes, keep drinking filtered water but don’t forget to eat your hydration, too. It’s one of the simplest, most delicious ways to nourish every cell in your body.

Fourth, practice mindful moments:

August can feel busy and transitional. Ground yourself with mindfulness practices to reduce stress and stay present. Start your day with deep breaths, jot down three things you’re grateful for or spend tech-free time outdoors. Even brief mindful pauses help improve mental clarity and resilience.

Fifth, prioritize sleep:

Longer daylight hours and social events can disrupt sleep routines. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality rest each night to support immunity and mood.

Keep bedtime consistent, limit screen time before sleep and cool your room for restful nights.

August is a month to savor, slow down, enjoy nature’s abundance and nourish both your body and mind. Small, mindful changes can lead to lasting well-being. I challenge you to pick ONE new healthy habit this month and feel the difference!