Summer is a wonderful time of year, and the shining sun makes everything and everyone feel much better, however, it is also important to take a little time out of the direct rays of the sun. If you don’t want to be stuck indoors, you may need some high-quality shade solutions for your garden this summer. Shelter from the sun is needed in every garden for many reasons, not only does shade enhance the aesthetic of your outdoor space, but it also plays a crucial role in maintaining your health and well-being.
Aside from protecting you from the sun's harmful UV rays, a shady garden has a host of benefits. It can help regulate your garden’s temperature, creating a cooler and more comfortable environment for you to enjoy. The spruce have some fun ways to incorporate shade into your gardens. Protection from the sun also helps to prevent plants from overheating and drying out, which is particularly important during hot summer months. Additionally, spending time in the shade can reduce the risk of heat stroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses.
When enjoying the sun in your garden, it's important to take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. Here are some tips on how to enjoy the sun safely and responsibly:
Wear Protective Clothing:
When spending time outdoors in the sun, it's important to wear protective clothing that covers your skin. This includes long-sleeved shirts, trousers, and hats with brims that shade your face, neck, and ears. Look for clothing made from lightweight and breathable materials like cotton or linen, which can help keep you cool in hot weather. If you're going to the beach or a pool, wear a rash guard or swim shirt that provides UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) 50+ sun protection.
Use Sun Cream:
Sun cream is an essential tool for protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Nivea explain how sunscreen works, and why you need it! Choose a broad-spectrum sun cream with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher, and apply it liberally to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before going outside. If you're swimming or sweating don’t forget to reapply every two hours, and remember to apply to those often forgotten areas like your ears, feet, and hands.
Seek Shade:
If possible, stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you're at the beach or a park, bring an umbrella or pop-up tent to create your own. You can also seek protection under trees or other natural structures, the Woodland Trust have some fantastic tips on planting trees. If you're spending time in your garden, consider adding some shade structures like pergolas, gazebos, or sails. These can provide functional and aesthetic benefits to your outdoor space, Westminster Outdoor Living has you covered with its parasols and pergolas.
Stay Hydrated:
Staying hydrated is crucial when spending time in the sun. Drink plenty of water, if you can avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks, they can dehydrate you even more. If you're sweating heavily, consider drinking an electrolyte-rich sports drink to replenish lost fluids and minerals. Remember, thirst is not always an accurate indicator of hydration levels, so it's important to drink water even if you don't feel thirsty.
Be Mindful of Medications:
Some medications can make you more sensitive to the sun, increasing your risk of sunburn and other skin damage. If you're taking any medications, check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if they increase your sensitivity to the sun. If so, take extra precautions to protect your skin when spending time outdoors. Some common medications that can increase sun sensitivity include antibiotics, birth control pills, and certain types of antidepressants.
Check Your Skin Regularly:
Finally, it's important to check your skin regularly for any changes or abnormalities. Look for new moles or growths, changes in the shape or colour of existing moles, or any other changes in your skin. If you notice any changes, make an appointment with a doctor or dermatologist right away.
A few other things to keep in mind
First, be aware of your local weather conditions and plan your outdoor activities accordingly, enjoying the sun responsibly. If it's going to be particularly hot or sunny, consider rescheduling your activities for a cooler time of day or opting for indoor activities instead.
Second, be mindful of the environment and take steps to reduce your impact on the planet. Use environmentally friendly sun creams that don't contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone or octinoxate, which can harm coral reefs and other marine life. Additionally, avoid littering and dispose of any rubbish or recyclables properly.
Finally, make sure to take care of your mental health as well as your physical health. Spending time outdoors in the sun can be a great way to boost your mood and reduce stress, but it's important to balance this with self-care activities like meditation, journaling, or spending time with loved ones. Be kind to yourself and remember to listen to your body's needs.
Enjoying the sun responsibly is all about taking steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and the environment while still having fun and enjoying all that summer has to offer. By following these tips and incorporating quality garden shade ideas into your outdoor space, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable summer that leaves you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
At Westminster Outdoor Living, we understand the importance of garden shade, which is why we've put together a list of our favourite ideas to help you stay safe and comfortable this summer and beyond.
Pergolas
A stylish and practical way to create shade in your garden. They come in a range of materials, including wood, metal, and vinyl, and can be customised to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a simple structure to cover a patio or a more elaborate design to provide shelter for your entire outdoor area, a pergola is a great option. Westminster Summit Pergolas are a stylish way to bring some shaded area to your garden.
Sails
Shade sails are a modern and versatile option for garden sun shelter. They are made from durable, UV-resistant fabric and come in a range of colours and shapes. Sails can be attached to walls or posts and can be adjusted to provide shade exactly where you need it.
Parasols
A classic garden shade solution and are available in a range of sizes and styles. There's an umbrella to suit every garden, from traditional parasols to cantilever umbrellas that provide maximum shade with minimum obstruction. Westminster has a wide selection of parasols to suit all your garden requirements, from smaller through table poles, to heavier duty, multi-position cantilever parasols, that can shade a range of lounge seating, dining sets or lounger arrangements from the sun.
Gazebos
A much more substantial option for garden sun shelter, providing a covered area that can be used for outdoor dining, entertaining, or just relaxing in the shade. They come in a range of sizes and styles, from simple pop-up gazebos to more permanent structures.
Trees
Finally, don't forget the natural shade provided by trees. If you have trees in your garden, make the most of them by positioning seating areas underneath. If you don't have trees, consider planting some - not only will they provide protection from the sun, but they'll also help to improve the air quality and biodiversity of your garden.
