Dr. Rippe's Blog

Probably as a holdover from our school days, most people think of summer as a time to take it a little easier--the lazy, hazy days of summer. In actuality, most of us are working just as hard as we do the rest of the year, probably harder if you throw in care for kids out of school. The economy isn't making thinking about down time any easier either. So here are three tried-and-true ways to relax a little even during the busiest summer.

• Get a little water time. I really enjoy swimming. My daily swim is time to relax, get away from work for 30 minutes, and get some exercise (that doesn't really feel like exercise). Even if you don't like to swim, just playing in the water with your kids can be enjoyable. Many communities have municipal pools open in summer. If there's no pool or not time to get to it, then a long soak in the tub (regular or spa) can also be refreshing. Playing in the sprinkler or hose with your kids may bring back memories.
• Take a nap. You needn't save naps for the weekend. I know one busy executive who manages to squeeze in a 10-minute "power snooze" every afternoon.  When he's on the road he may nap in a desk chair or stretched out on a quiet bit of carpet, but he gets it in.  If the carpet's not for you, then try a 10-minute timeout at your desk. Cut off the phone, close your eyes, sit comfortably, focus on your breathing (slowly in and out) and gently clear your mind of thoughts. Just focus on breathing and relaxing your muscles. It's a great break.
• Hang out the "gone fishin'" sign for a half day.  In the south where my wife grew up, the expression "gone fishin" might describe someone who actually had taken off for some time on the river or who had just taken some private, personal time. So why not take off a half day just for yourself, to do something you really want to do--whatever that is.

I hope these ideas have triggered some more thoughts of ways you can relax a little even if your summer promises to be hectic.

When you're under a lot of stress--perhaps facing a big presentation at work or having to add care for a sick family member to a busy schedule--does that seem to be the time when skin seems to roughen up or break out? Ongoing research by dermatologists indicates that such experiences probably aren't just in your head. Stress does affect physical systems in our bodies include our skin.

One primary cause seems to be that increased stress causes the body to produce more of a hormone called cortisol. Increase in cortisol levels is accompanied by increase in oil production in the skin. When we're under stress, we may also develop little repetitive habits, such as picking at rough places/acne or twisting a lock of hair, that we aren't aware of but that can exacerbate problems.

The primary way to deal with these problems is, of course, to take steps to reduce stress. Getting regular physical activity and plenty of sleep are very helpful. Meanwhile, to care for skin when you're under stress (and even when you are not) dermatologists recommend avoiding too hot showers or baths, avoiding detergent-containing soaps, using skin moisturizer after bathing, and not forgetting sunscreen.

Making sure that your children have safe, positive places to be and things to do in summer can be tough for working parents. Small children typically continue with their regular day care but finding options for older children without breaking the budget can be tough. Here are a few ideas I've gleaned over the years.

• Explore local options for varied activities. Many city recreation departments, schools, community organizations, arts programs, and faith organizations have low-cost day camps, sports camps, and other activity programs. Involve your kids in exploring these options and choosing what they'd like to do. If some of their friends want to do the same things, share transporting kids to activities with other parents.
• For teens, paying jobs may be harder to come by this year, but volunteer activities abound. Many hospitals and social service agencies have opportunities for teens.
• Don't overschedule kids.  Down time is important. But encourage them to get off the computer and away from the television and do something outdoors.
• Think simple, healthy food choices for summer.  Children can explore the recipes and meals on Start Making Choices and help you plan for the week. Older children may be able to pitch in and make dinner on one or more evenings.
• If you ask older siblings to care for younger siblings, make sure the ground rules are clear, establish communication lines, and consider paying the older kids (it is a job, after all).

Most of all, take time to enjoy being with your children and doing family things together.