Styling and Photography by Chavi Feldman
Sometimes, healthy habits are an uphill battle. Other times, they’re a walk in the park.
Studies have suggested that in the wintertime biological changes stimulate hunger. We tend to crave heavier, warmer, denser foods, like chunky stew or steaming pasta. With the weather cold and damp, we have to get creative to implement an exercise routine. Drinking takes a nosedive, too, because water doesn’t hold the same appeal when we’re cold. There’s only so much tea a woman can drink!
Think summer, though, and the scene changes. Hot, sunny weather increases our tendency toward eating light, refreshing foods with higher water content. Salads, fruits, and smoothies are the order of the day. Thanks to the tug of warmth and sun, we are out and about, on the move, exercising and sweating without having to search out an indoor elliptical or treadmill. Yay for vitamin D — as much as supplements do the trick, there’s nothing like the real thing, so soak it in (through a layer of sunscreen) while you can!
Drinking lots of water is the natural result of all that heat and movement. And another great habit that gets a boost in the summer: sleep! Longer days with more sunshine help set our circadian rhythm in balance. Many moms can also get to bed earlier and wake up later, thanks to homework-free nights and a later day-camp start.
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