The summer solstice marks the official start of summer and it is also the longest day of the year. In the Midwest region of the U.S., we’ll see about 15 hours of daylight on Saturday, June 20.
Here’s 15 Healthy Things to do with 15 Hours of Daylight on the Longest Day of the Year
1. Watch the sunrise
Wake up naturally with the sun to start your day off right. The sun’s light is a natural signal to your body that it’s time to wake up and get going.
2. Meditate
Take quiet time as soon as you wake up to reflect and meditate. Sit in a comfortable position and bring your attention to your breath as you listen to the morning sounds around you. Start the longest day of the year with a clear and healthy mindset.
3. Enjoy some exercise
Beginning the day with exercise will help you keep an active mindset for the rest of the day. It will help your body wake up and fuel you with natural energy.
4. Eat a healthy breakfast
Starting the day off right with nutritious food will set you up for success to crush those other 13 hours of daylight on the longest day of the year. Aim to eat foods that will give you energy and fill you up like eggs, Greek yogurt, oatmeal, chia seeds, fruit, and nuts.
5. Walk your dog
Not only is this a good way to cool down after your morning workout, but it will get your K9 friend moving too. Walking your dog will help them maintain a healthy weight and body condition, keep their joints moving and functional and help regulate their digestive health. Plus, man’s best friend is the perfect walking buddy.
6. Ride your bike
Need to go somewhere today? Switching up your method of transportation from four wheels to two or is a great way stay active throughout the day while helping the environment.
7. Go kayaking
Get out on the water! Kayaking will engage your core, arms and legs. Get a great full-body workout in all while enjoying the great outdoors. Make sure to bring your water bottle with you and stay hydrated.
8. Plant flowers or a vegetable garden
Take advantage of the long day by planting some flowers or starting a vegetable, fruit and herb garden. With a garden, you can reap the benefits of it all summer and even into fall.
9. Go swimming
Head to the pool to cool down while also soaking in some vitamin D. Swimming laps or just playing some pool games will build endurance, muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness without impact stress on the body. If you are visiting a public pool, be sure to practice social distancing.
10. Eat lunch outside
Grab lunch outside on a patio or head out to the park for a picnic and bask in some more sunlight. Want to grill out? Check out some of our favorite healthy recipes.
11. Visit a farmers market
Head to a local farmers market to see what foods are in season. This is a great way to support local businesses and know your food is coming from a source just down the road. Be sure to practice social distancing and wear a face covering at the market.
12. Stretch or practice yoga outside in the sun
Grab a mat and let the sun warm up your muscles for a nice stretch to help your body recover from a big day of activities. Try some beginner moves like triangle pose, half moon pose or downward dog.
13. Read a book under a shady tree or on a quiet park bench
Take advantage of the natural reading light outside and get a good summer read in.
14. Play an outdoor game
Outdoor games, or lawn games, are a great way to pass the time while having fun. They also get the whole family involved and are a great bonding activity.
15. Watch the sunset
As the day comes to a close, wind down as the sun does. Try to turn off all screens – phones, TVs and tablets, at least 30 minutes before bedtime so your body and mind can naturally prepare for rest.
Learn about the health care services offered at Mercy Health.
