Did you know that 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated?  And when it comes to weight loss and fitness, this can actually slow down metabolism by 3% or more.  You’ve probably heard the advice to drink water to help stave hunger pains.  Well, 37% of Americans are reportedly disconnected enough from their thirst mechanism that thirst is often mistaken for hunger. So next time you feel hungry, try a glass of water, and see if that quenches the appetite.

In our family, we are big water drinkers, starting each morning with a tall, cool glass of water with a fresh lemon wedge.  It’s a sort of “inner shower” to flush the system first thing, followed by a steady water bottle companion filled throughout the day.

In fact, just writing this is making me thirsty, so cheers, and bottoms up!

Devani Alderson is an aspiring writer and artist and works in social media and SEO marketing.  

Summer is quickly arriving and soon people everywhere will want to get outside and away from their hibernation in the gym.  Being active throughout the day has been found to be more important than exercising once a day, so take full advantage of the season.  So think outside the gym and hit the trails or rapids.  Here are some of our favorites…what are yours?  We’d love to hear what you’ve done or are planning to do!

NOTE:  Most of these can be done at a beginner level or even advanced, choose what’s right for you.

Whitewater Rafting – To some this could seem extreme, but there are some rivers that are a bit tamer and not so forceful. Look for rafting companies that offer optional guided tours.  This should let you know that with or without a guide the river should be doable for most people.  A great site to look at is http://raftingamerica.com/ , they even have a section for ‘First Time Rafters’.

Rock Climbing – Some retail sports stores actually have rock climbing right in the store, and encourage people to give it a try.  Check out http://www.indoorclimbing.com/worldgyms.html to find one near you.  Give it your all and climb as far as you can! The view from the top is always worth it.  If you feel this is a bit too easy for you and want to give the real thing a try – look for beginner’s courses with guides to help you along.

Hiking – A great way to get into the heart of nature.  Be sure to pack light and don’t forget the camera!  This is your time to unwind and stop to smell the flowers, so enjoy the journey.  A good way to find trails near you is to check out the All Trails App and/or website: www.alltrails.com.  Remember the hiker motto: Take only

pictures, leave only footprints.

Caving – Exploring a cave can be a great way to avoid the heat of summer.  Be sure to look for guided cave tours if you are new to the caving-scene.  Most caves stay at a cool 55° during the entire year, so dress for the occasion.  Did you know that the world’s longest known cave system, with more than 390 miles explored is right here in the United States?  Yep! Mammoth Cave located (underneath) Cave City, Kentucky.  Learn more about this great National Park at http://www.nps.gov/maca/index.htm

Geocaching – This is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enable devises (like your smartphone)!  Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location.  This can be a great thing to do for a day trip somewhere.  Make the geocache your End Point, but allow several stops on the way to see some local color.  Visit the Geocaching hub at www.geocaching.com, set up your free account and start your search!

Zip Lining – The level for Zip Lining typically depends on the height of the cable.  You can even find some zip lines in playgrounds! They have some that are suspended as high as the treetops, or even traversing large valleys.  Whichever level you choose, you are safely strapped into a harness, attached to a very strong cable and you simply hold on and enjoy the ride. Don’t just focus on the cable, or where you’re headed, look around—see what there is to see—you may never come this way again.  To find a great Zip Line near you, check out the Top Ten Zip Lines in the US: http://www.americasbestonline.net/index.php/pages/ziplinetours.html

Of course with all summer outdoor activities, drink plenty of water and bring nutritious snacks to keep you fueled properly.  Enjoy the great outdoors, breathing in fresh air and vitality.  Nature is nurture, and getting  close to nature brings you closer to you!

Carrie Tidwell is a writer, group fitness instructor, marathoner, wellness coach, and administrator, living  and enjoying nature in the mountains of Georgia.

What are you doing for outdoor fun this summer? Post your favorite outdoor activities for a chance to win a free MTF 6 Pack workout!