5 Simple things to do for your health this month

1) Watch the heat - Be mindful of the temperature and its power to kill. Have a heat plan - know where to go to cool off, even during a rolling black-outs (malls, libraries, department stores, shaded community pools, etc.).

2) Summer socials - Connecting with your community is an important part of being healthy - studies show that people who have strong social networks are more likely to live longer, take concrete steps to ensure their health, and to rate their life higher on quality-of-life scales.

3) The pool thing: Nothing is more precious than our children - sure, you want to stay cool, but if you're around a pool with kids, it takes constant vigilance to protect them from drownings. If you own a pool, be sure you have several layers of protection - but keep in mind that none of them replaces the type of hyper-awareness that is required with children around water. In contrast, also keep in mind that children need to learn how to be water-safe.

4) Brain buzz - July is Anti-Boredom Month (who knew?). When it comes to brain health, it truly is a case of use-it-or-lose-it. What parts of your brain are atrophying? When was the last time you stretched yourself out of your brain comfort zone? Do a (har) mental inventory and see what you may enjoy exploring - improv? Sudoku? July is a great month to bust a brain-move.

5) Summer sillies - Every month should have room for a little deliberate silliness - it's what helps keep our Joy Habits strong.