Who says that summer has to be the time that all of your healthy habits fall by the wayside? It can sometimes seem like one long marathon from the time the kids get out of school until the time they go back, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Our Founder, Denise, has some fun and healthy ideas to enjoy this time of year while making life a little easier. We rounded up Denise's list of 7 healthy summer habits to help you keep a steady pace this season.

 

1. For Snacking: Biltong

Biltong has coined the phrase “the new beef jerky.” Unlike typical beef jerky, biltong is air dried, instead of dehydrated, so it’s juicy and delicious - and has no added sugar. It’s perfect to have handy as a go-to snack throughout the day.

 

2. For Reading: The Power of Kindness: The Unexpected Benefits of Leading a Compassionate Life

We all deserve to get lost in a book—and not just the book our kids have to read for summer reading. This is a feel-good read, with all of the insight on why kindness is the key to happiness - especially handy as a reminder when those in-between school, camp and vacay days try to get the best of us!

"A book after my own heart." - His Holiness The Dalai Lama

"This book says it all." - Richard Carlson, Author of Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

 

3. For Moving: Pilates

The best thing that you can do to establish a workout routine is to schedule workouts you *actually* enjoy doing. Club Pilates has locations nationwide, is reasonably priced, has tons of class options (so you never get bored) and various class times to keep up with a busy schedule.  

 

4. For Cooking: Vietnamese Summer Rolls

To make this an easy lunch (or snack), Denise keeps tons of pre-cut veggies in the fridge so that this is effortless to throw together. Spring rolls are light, yummy, crunchy, and super nutritious. We can't wait to try this vegetarian option with marinated tofu by @aline_made. Yum!

5. For Going Green:  PaperKarma

Say goodbye to junk mail—from your phone! PaperKarma is an app that puts a halt to junk mail, catalogs, and all of the other clutter that you REALLY don’t need. Less time sorting through mail, more time running through sprinklers!

 

6. For Shopping Made Simple: Primary

Imagine one hub for all your kids' clothing at a reasonable price. Look no further. Primary has high-quality clothing for little ones that they will love as much as you do. We also LOVE the two moms behind the brand, Galyn and Christina: 

"We’re two moms who had been shopping for kids clothes for over 12 years but still didn’t have a go-to for awesome basics at reasonable prices."

They created a great solution for a problem they personally experienced - sounds familiar!

 

6. For Visiting: Camp Store in NYC

There’s a special spot in Flatiron that your kids might love more than your standard toy store. CAMP goes way beyond just toys and goodies—it’s a fully curated experience. Beyond the secret door, an entire camp-themed adventure awaits. With everything from a light up dance floor to arts and craft activities, this will blow their little minds.

7. For Inspiration: Quote from Beyoncé 

"I don't like to gamble, but if there's one thing I'm willing to bet on, it's myself.”

- Beyoncé