Hello again! So here we are in August! I hope you are all having an amazing summer; filled with sun, fun, friends ,delicious food and spending time in the great outdoors!

Summer activities such as hiking; camping; boating, bike riding and even long walks along the seashore can come with problems if we are not careful. I know I sound like MOM!

Injuries cannot always be avoided; but there are ways to prepare and natural remedies if necessary.

Tip # 1. Start any activity slowly especially after a long winter hibernation.  Start with small activities; just enjoy being outdoors.  When hiking for example; begin at a slow pace ,walk for about 10 minutes, stretch, then continue onto the longer portion of the hike.

Tip # 2. Stay hydrated. Keep quality filtered water with you at all times. Hydrated muscles are soft and pliable; dehydration can lead to strains and tears.

Tip #3. Know the lay of the land. Try to get information beforehand about places you will be hiking in.

Tip #4. Take nutritious snacks such as trail mix. Here at Complete Health Store we have a variety of ALL NATURAL mixes that are tasty and provide “fuel” for your lean mean active machine!

With the proper preparation and nutrition you can have a wonderful experience in “the wild”! Now, even with all these precautions accidents and spills and painful inconveniences can happen. Following are some ways to remedy the situation.

SUNBURN: Remedy this with Aloe Vera Gel and a brief soak in cold water such as a stream to “cool the burn”.

SUNSTROKE: Replace the three nutrients depleted by sunstroke (sodium, potassium, and blood sugar) quickly with apples; raisins, water and always carry an electrolyte powder like EMERGEN-C in your summer pack.

BLISTERS: Carry a small amount of Duct Tape and as soon as you feel the burn of a blister cover the area for protection. Remove the duct tape with alcohol once you get home.

SPRAINS AND STRAINS: If near a stream soak the injured area in cold water to immediately decrease swelling. Once at home ice area again and use ARNICA  MONTANA  both externally as a cream or ointment and internally as a homeopathic lozenge.  Found at Complete Health Store this powerful nutrient speeds healing and reduces swelling and bruising.

INSECT BITES: The worst; the itching and scratching and more itching; it gives me the   “ heebie jeebies” just thinking about it! Bug sprays with a natural base and essential oils CITRONELLA and  LEMON BALM help ward of bugs.  If bitten TEA TREE OIL helps speed the healing. Dilute with a carrier oil such as jojoba or use simple  cooking oil.

Enjoy August my friends! Stay active; happy; healthy. Watch as many sunrises and sunsets as you can; stay well.

Take Good Care

Barbara