By Heuga Center Nurse Educator Pat Kennedy, RN, CNP, MSCN

Summertime sometimes makes living a challenge. Many of us live by our routines that often take a hiatus in the summer months. Others find summer more difficult due to the heat so we spend far too much time indoors in our homes to escape the summer’s heat. This, however, is a great time of year to try new things or ways to do the old things.

Here are ways to stay active in the heat:

• Exercise feels like a chore in the heat. Exercise in the morning or evening to stay cool. Some malls are open early to allow people to walk in air-conditioned comfort without shoppers in their way. Recreation centers and athletic clubs are cooled venues. Of course, pools are wonderful for cooling and exercising.

• Exercise your mind. Mind exercise is neglected, especially when you’re tired, hot or unmotivated. Visit a museum, zoo or park early or late in the day to avoid the heat. You can choose to walk or use a wheelchair or scooter, which is available at most places.  From Central Park in New York City to a pocket park in South Dakota, parks are open to use. Take a blanket and watch people. Take a picnic and read a book. Enjoying fresh air is good for the soul. Encourage mind exercise by taking a class at a local school, senior center or library. Join a book club. Listen to books on tape. Turn off the TV.

• Try a new hobby or activity.  Join a group of similar-minded people. Learn the activity and eat lunch together.

• Volunteer in your community. Most communities have resources of places that need volunteers. Often there are opportunities in nursing homes, senior centers, libraries, kid-summer programs and church-summer schools. Try mentoring someone who is struggling or offer tutoring services for those who need extra help. Teach English as a second language.

• Hold a party or potluck. Have it catered by Costco. Getting together with people is the most important thing to do.

• Enjoy this beautiful time.