​Health & Home Tips for Summer

Make sure you are drinking lots of water - hydration is key at this time of the year! 
Not a big fan of water?  It is very easy to flavour water with fruits and essential oils that are deemed safe for consumption (they DO exist).​

Do NOT leave your pets in a HOT car!  
Please check with us first as we are more than happy to welcome your fur-baby into our office, providing no patient in the office is allergic.

Use sun protection!
Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, etc.
Stay away from chemically-laden sunscreens.   There are plenty of natural options that work well.  
 Here’s a DIY recipe:
Shea Butter – ¼ cup Coconut Oil – ¼ cup
Zinc Oxide – ¼ cup Olive Oil – ½ teaspoon
Avocado Oil – ½ teaspoon Carrot Seed Oil – ¼ teaspoon
Jojoba Oil – ¼ teaspoon Raspberry Seed Oil – ¼ teaspoon
Essential Oil of choice – several drops (optional)
 Melt all ingredients in a pot (or use a double boiler or glass measuring cup in a pot with shallow water) on low temperature until they are all combined. Then let cool. The mixture will thicken upon cooling.  Can also cool in the fridge, then whip with a beater/mixer for a more whipped cream.   Store in an airtight container/jar.
Apply as needed – if you are prone to burning, then apply each hour. This natural sunscreen is waterproof.

Keep the bugs at bay!
Stay away from DEET & other chemicals found in commercial bug repellents. 
There are natural bug deterrents and we usually have some in stock during the warmer season.
 You can also try this (or your own) DIY Bug Repellent (including ticks) recipe:
4 oz. Distilled water 4 oz. Witch Hazel
20 drops of essential oils (adjust as needed) - combo. of Lavender, peppermint, basil, lemongrass, Eucalyptus, & Geranium). 
Mix in a spray bottle and use as needed.
SAFE for kids & pets too :)
 
Eat fresh!
We are VERY lucky here in Victoria that we have access to so many locally fresh farm foods.  
Bonus: berry season is upon us :)

Make sure you play and enjoy the outdoors!  
Connect with nature, hike, play some sports, etc.  
Just get outside and soak up some Vitamin D and fresh air.

Get quality rest & relaxation!
Lounging by the pool/lake/ocean, relaxing under a tree, picnics, sitting on the deck enjoying company or a good book, etc.