How to Have a Successful July 4th

It’s that time of year again: fireworks, hot dogs, flip flops, and swimming pools. For many Americans, the Fourth of July is the high point of the summer! But even with all the barbecues, sunshine, and Americana, Independence Day can lead to anxiety, stress, and fatigue. Looking to have a chill summer holiday? Here are some July 4th de-stressors to keep in mind!

Get some (protected) sun

The long days and plentiful sunshine can do great things for your mood and your stress. All that vitamin D! Being outside and getting extra fresh air can also help regulate stress, promote activity (which also does great things for your overall health), and help you unwind.

Don’t forget the sunblock though: this July 4th de-stressor can backfire if you end up with a sunburn. Also consider bug repellants or keeping your skin covered, particularly if you’ll be spending time in wooded areas.

Stay hydrated — with water

Summer may seem to beg for a cold beer or a salty margarita, but your best bet for keeping stress at bay during the warmer months is always going to be water. Especially if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, staying more active for longer periods of the day, or occasionally indulging in an alcoholic beverage, water is critical to keeping your body hydrated and healthy.

Keep an extra water with you as often as possible — this July 4th de-stressor is a great one to use all summer long.

Don’t forget the importance of sleep

Routines have a way of slipping away from us during the summer. The kids are out of school, there are plenty of activities to fill up the evenings, and the sun stays out later. And that can be a good thing! Letting loose and enjoying the summer is what the season is all about. But losing track of your sleep pattern can cause lots of trouble.

Even if you’re staying out later more often or tempted to sleep in on the weekends, do what you can to keep a consistent bedtime — and morning alarm — to minimize those effects.

Watch for symptoms of stress

Keep an eye out for indications of stress so you can take preventative measures before it causes too much trouble. Restless sleep, fatigue during the day, headaches and muscle tension, and grinding your teeth can all indicate stress is taking a toll. Prioritizing sleep, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and drinking plenty of water can all help.

If you think you might be suffering from bruxism (nighttime teeth grinding), a dental guard can also be a great solution. By preventing teeth grinding and keeping your jaw from clenching, you can improve your sleep and ease your muscle tension! Look for SleepRight’s dental guards at your local CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart.