July is family reunion month. As the summer sun reaches its zenith, family celebrations, and community activities are in full swing with picnics, barbecues and fun activities. Remember to put a healthy spin on these traditional celebrations as you show love and make more memories together.
Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables and fruits from your farmers markets and grocery stores or your gardens. With colorful salads, fruit platters and grilled veggie skewers on the menu, your family can enjoy healthy alternatives and experience the benefits of good nutrition. Make veggie pops for the kids and adults using fruit and vegetable juices. Be creative!
Grilled chicken, fish, and plant-based options can replace heavier meat choices and be delicious at the same time. Don’t be afraid to try new recipes. You can search Google or go to public libraries and find a lot of ideas. PPH also has information on a variety of community activities to help you make the most of seasonal opportunities.
Here are some suggestions for activities:
Visit local parks and recreational centers.Participate in outdoor yoga classes, nature hikes, bike rides, play ball, visit community pools (safely).Incorporate mindfulness exercises such as group meditation and gratitude circles into your family/friends’ gatherings. Put the phones down and talk to each other. These activities help reduce stress and foster a sense of connection and well-being.Get involved in community services — volunteer at a food bank, charity runs/walks, etc., and teach children the value of giving back.Remember to use water safety practices and be mindful of heated vehicles and proper hydration.
Whatever you do, stay active and promote wellness as you create memorable moments with family and friends. Promote healthy lifestyles and create a sense of belonging. Studies have shown that when people have a sense of worth and belonging, their life span may be enhanced and lengthened as they experience more peace and contentment.
Share tips and stories with others who can contribute to healthier living that not only occurs during the summer but all year long. There is purpose in your place and you have much good to offer.
Your family deserves to be happy, healthy, and holistically well! Show love and keep smiling as you celebrate family and have a happy July.
Pitt Partners for Health (PPH) is a community health improvement partnership with representatives from local churches, businesses, communities, the hospital, health department and other human service agencies.
The partnership’s mission is to improve the population health of Pitt County through coalition building and partnership. PPH meets on the second Thursday of each month. For more information, contact Mary Hall at mphall@ecuhealth.org or visit the website at pittpartnersforhealth.org
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