Summer Wellness

The Columbia River Gorge is a summer paradise with endless activities. One Community Health wants to remind you to stay safe with these tips! Hydrate with water and smart nutrition, including water-rich fruits and veggies. Be aware of smoke and fire safety, and find local cooling centers. Embrace body positivity by wearing what feels good and celebrating your body’s capabilities. Enjoy summer activities safely by hiking smart, biking safely, paddling with care, and respecting the wind. Your well-being is always in season!🌞


Hydration + Nutrition

As the heat rises, so does the need to keep your body feeling its best. Whether you're soaking up the sun or staying indoors, hydration and smart nutrition are your summer essentials!

🔑 Tips to stay cool:
💧 Hydrate with water (and tasty fruit-infused water!)
🥒 Fill up on water-rich fruits and veggies
🍉 Keep meals light and nutritious—think fresh and seasonal
🚫 Avoid drinks that leave you thirsty again (hello, caffeine!)

Keep your body fueled and your energy high. Let’s make this summer the healthiest one yet! 🌿

Easy ways to stay hydrated

  • Aim for 6–8 cups/day

  • Add fruit or herbs for flavor

  • Eat water-rich foods 🍉🥒🍊

  • Bring a bottle everywhere!

💡 Pro Tip: If you're thirsty, you're already dehydrated!

Nutrition: Keep it light

  • Focus on fresh, seasonal foods

  • Choose grilled over fried

  • Snack smart with fruits, yogurt, or veggies + hummus

  • Buy local fruits and veggies—cheaper, fresher, and packed with nutrients. Plus, you’ll support local farmers and the community.

Keep your food safe

  • Heat speeds up spoilage – Bacteria grow faster in warm weather.

  • Outdoor eating risks – Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot.

  • Handle with care – Wash hands and avoid cross-contamination.


Smoke + Fire Safety + Cooling Centers

When the heat’s on, it’s more than just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. 🥵
From rising temps to smoky skies, we’ve got tips to help you stay safe, cool, and informed all summer long.

✅ Learn the signs of heat-related illness
✅ Get tips on staying hydrated and cool
✅ Know what to do when air quality takes a hit
✅ Find local cooling centers near you
✅ Learn how to protect vulnerable neighbors and loved ones

Whether it’s heatwaves, wildfires, or poor air quality, a little prep can go a long way. 💧🧊

  • Check air quality daily

  • Stay indoors with windows/doors closed if air quality is poor

  • Use an air purifier if you have one

  • Wear a properly-fitted N95 mask if you must go out

  • If there’s a nearby wildfire, be prepared to evacuate.


Body Positivity

Body positivity encourages everyone to let go of the idea of a "perfect" summer body, wear what feels good, and remember that social media does not reflect reality. It celebrates what your body can do, not just how it looks, and emphasizes that men also face unrealistic body expectations. Confidence and worth come in all shapes and sizes, regardless of muscles or jawlines.

Body Positivity Starts Here

  • Let go of the “perfect” summer body. It does not exist.

  • Wear what feels good.

  • Social media does not = reality.

  • Celebrate what your body does and not just how it looks.

💪 Body Positivity Includes Men Too

  • Men face unrealistic body expectations too—muscles, abs, “manly” builds.

  • Your worth isn’t measured in inches, reps, or jawlines.

  • Confidence comes in all shapes and sizes.


Summer Activity Safety

☀️ We’re closing out our Summer Wellness Series with the best advice of all: stay safe while you explore.

The Columbia River Gorge is full of epic hikes, scenic rides, wild water, and strong wind—but it’s also full of risks if you’re not prepared.

🥾 Hike smart
🚴‍♀️ Bike safely
🛶 Paddle with care
🪁 Respect the wind

No matter your adventure, your health and safety come first.
Thanks for following along this summer—your well-being is always in season.

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Another Summer Night!