Tis the season…no, not for holiday cheer, but for spending more time outside! This increased outside time comes with a lot of fabulous perks, like increased vitamin D, and decreased seasonal affective disorder and better moods. However, all of that fun time outdoors can lead to some unpleasant side effects, namely sunburn, insect bites and stings, and poison ivy or oak.
Sunscreen, bug spray, and anti-itch creams can be little bottles of hazardous chemical explosions, making it tricky to enjoy the outdoors safely and with health in mind. Luckily, there are some natural ways to both prevent and treat these seasonal annoyances.
Perhaps you missed a spot at the beach or while doing yard work and are left with an uncomfortable sunburn. Did you know that the old potato in the dark corner of your pantry can soothe even your deepest red shoulders? Everyday Roots has a great listing of the potato trick and other natural ways to soothe that discomfort at 17 Naturally Soothing Sunburn Treatments
If you accidentally wander off the trail on a hike and disregard the “Leaves of three, let it be” saying, then look no further than your pantry and refrigerator. Here are some wonderful all natural ways to try and get relief from itching: Poison Ivy Home Remedies: 10 Rash-Relief Treatments | Reader’s Digest
And for bug bites, likely the most common of the three maladies, here are some ideas (we all know how I feel about the magic of apple cider vinegar!): How to Treat Bug Bites Naturally: Home Remedies You Need to Know
Most of all, when you are enjoying the great outdoors this summer, take time to be prepared — wear your sunscreen (check out Skin Deep to find a safe option), wear tall socks and long sleeves while hiking, and bring along adequate hydration. Now pack your favorite snack and get moving!
There is no passion to be found in playing small, in settling for a life that is less than you are capable of living. 
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