While the temperatures this week may have you thinking summer isn’t as close as we think, Memorial Day weekend is almost here, marking the unofficial start of summer. Here in the NEK, summer often feels like “go time,” for opportunities to significantly enhance our quality of life after the long cold winter months. This is the window of time most of us are looking to improve our homes, health and well-being that is sometimes overlooked during the darker days of winter. There’s an old adage saying, “don’t plant before Memorial Day,” however, with Memorial Day upon us, it’s the perfect time to start planting seeds for all the things we want to see flourish in the season ahead.
One of the things we seem to crave the most this time of year and miss in the winter is sunlight! While the sun brings warmer temperatures and allows for more access to building homes, repairs, activities and ease of travel, it also has a key influence on our health. Living in the northern latitudes can impact our sun exposure and our Vitamin D exposure too! While many people think of vitamins coming from only food sources, sunlight is a primary natural source of Vitamin D. This essential vitamin is needed for bone health, immune function, and even mood regulation. The National Institutes of Health has been studying Vitamin D (nih.gov) and how it impacts regions around the world. Studies indicate that populations in northern regions are at higher risk for Vitamin D deficiency due to reduced sunlight intensity and duration. Spending time outdoors, even in small amounts, can significantly boost Vitamin D levels, which are often depleted after the long Vermont winter. This is a great reason to get outside to boost your mood and store up some vitamin D! It’s like planting a seed for health!
Beyond Vitamin D, the Vermont summer invites increased physical activity. With Vermonters being known for their athleticism and famous for their natural playgrounds of lakes, mountains and streams, Vermonters, especially those in the NEK, are also known for higher rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic conditions. Perhaps it’s the long winters that take a toll on the health of our community, but either way, all studies and scientific greats share that movement is one of the best seeds you can plant in your life for better health. Even those with COPD, and other limiting conditions have opportunities to move their bodies in ways that will improve their quality of life. For adults, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. In the NEK, where outdoor activities are never easier than right now, it’s a great time to start.
The Memorial Day Weekend kick-off to summer also brings with it a great reminder of the mental health benefits of “summer living.” Exposure to nature, often termed “green exercise,” has been shown to reduce stress, lower cortisol levels, and improve mood. While there isn’t an actual “movement,” required for this exercise, it’s just about being present in nature. Here in the NEK, that’s easy! Taking a moment to sit outside, feel the breeze, walk by the water, garden, even looking at flowers, can significantly impact psychological well-being. This connection to nature can also foster mindfulness and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Studies have found that just listening to birds can improve your mood (this is why you may also hear bird sounds in doctor’s offices or spas)!
Finally, summer in Vermont brings an abundance of fresh, local produce. Farmers’ markets and local grocery stores work hard to offer seasonal fruits and vegetables, packing in nutrient-dense options that are often more flavorful and contain higher levels of certain vitamins than produce that is shipped long distances. Summer is all about the berries, leafy greens, corn, and tomatoes, which also means you will get essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can make you feel, look and act better than you may expect. Supporting local farms also strengthens the community and promotes sustainable eating habits. Planting the seed in your mind to eat seasonal foods is a great way to see your health flourish!
While you may be planning to plant your gardens this weekend, think about how you can also plan for your health! Embracing these aspects of summer living can also increase your health by simply soaking up a little Vitamin D and engaging in outdoor physical activity or nurturing mental well-being through nature and enjoying fresh local produce. These little seeds are not merely a seasonal indulgence, they reap a harvest that can sustain your health, happiness and wellbeing well past the end of the season. Make this Memorial Day weekend the start of a healthier, more vibrant summer, plant seeds for yourself this summer!