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Health

taking the

ndkids to the

k, any form of

eraction is great

mental health.

Research has

wn social

nections are

y important,

cially for people

live alone,”

anie explains.

only will it put

le on your face,

helps reduce

gs of isolation,

ty or depression.”

e a big event,

either; just meeting a friend for coffee

can really boost your mood.

bOur inbuilt detox

While sweat stains may prove

a bit embarrassing, perspiration

is a healthy, vital part of the

body’s natural detoxification

process. It’s also the body’s key

mechanism for regulating inter

temperature, which prevents

overheating and hyperventilatio

“Perspiration opens your pores and

clears out toxins and bacteria,” Melanie

adds. “Just remember that you’re losing

water from your body, so it’s important

to stay well hydrated.”

bDrink up!

On hotter days it’s normal to frequently

reach for your water bottle, however

boosting your fluid intake has benefits

beyond quenching your thirst.

“Drinking enough water to keep

your body fully hydrated will ward off

headaches, help cure sunburn, drive

away fatigue or brain fog and put you

in a sunnier mood,” Melanie says.

If you struggle drinking plain water,

add a dash of lemon, mint or herbs for

a little more flavour.

bStay in the moment

When the sun’s out and

everything’s looking beautiful,

t can be uplifting to focus

on the here and now and the

eauty of nature.

“When the sun is shining

nd you are at the beach or

e park, it’s easier to live

the moment and enjoy your

surroundings, rather than focus on your

worries,” Melanie says. “Being more

mindful has been proven to reduce

stress levels and ward off anxiety

and depression.”

Research by the University of Oxford

shows mindfulness-based therapy leads

to a 58 per cent

reduction in anxiety

levels; a 57 per cent

diminishing of

depression; and

40 per cent lower

stress levels.

bExplore

new horizons

Whether it’s a new

yoga or Pilates class,

volunteering or

overhauling the

garden, warmer

weather can increase motivation to try

something new. This can be great for

your brain, mental health – and you

might even make new friends.

Melanie says, “Getting out of your

comfort zone and challenging yourself

mentally is great for rejuvenating and

building more brain cells.”

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