Pamper your body for summer

The warmer weather of summer can make us feel so self-indulgent. With more free time and a more relaxed schedule, you have the perfect opportunity to pamper your body.

Drink green tea. Drinking several cups of antioxidant-rich green tea daily may help prevent skin cancer. Experts think that it may work directly on the skin also, so look for lotions with green tea as an ingredient.

Pay extra attention to your skin. Always wear sunscreen or lotion with an SPF rating of at least 15. Don't forget to apply sunscreen on your lower legs, lower arms, and feet. Put on a baseball cap or summer straw hat to shield your face from the sun. Remember to drink enough milk and vitamin D-fortified juice - the sunscreen blocks absorption of sunlight, the ingredient your body needs to make bone-protecting vitamin D.

Take care of your feet. They're out there for the world to see, so put your best foot forward. Use a pumice stone to smooth calluses, especially on the back of your heels and on the side of your big toe. Get regular pedicures - they're an inexpensive way to treat your feet. Moisturize feet after showering or bathing. Give your feet a massage and rub with lotion made just for feet.

Help your hair. Trim to remove split or dry ends, or get a new short cut for summer. Use a deep conditioner to restore hair moisture after the drying effects of swimming and sun.

Keep your body in top shape. Drink plenty of low- or no-calorie, caffeine-free fluids every day. Enjoy plenty of summer berries - they're rich in healthful antioxidants and other compounds that protect against cancer and heart disease. Make an appointment with a personal trainer for a fitness evaluation. Take an early morning or late evening walk every day.

Relax your mind. Read at least one summer best seller. Listen to soothing music. Catch the summer blockbuster movies. Learn to meditate, and keep it up after summer ends to maintain your sense of summer calm.