This summer, I’ve loved sneaking in a quick swim whenever I can. It gets me outside, moving, and usually leaves me in a better mood. So when the pool near me closed due to wildfire smoke from Canada last week, I felt like I’d lost more than access to an aquatic workout, especially when you count all the days it's been too hot to do, well, much of anything.
It made me realize how much climate change shapes how we experience our world — and research agrees. That, coupled with the particular melancholy hot weather can bring, creates a perfect storm of emotions. I can’t control the weather, but I have found other ways (that don’t rely on the forecast) to amplify the restorative energy I normally associate with this time of year:
Your digestive tract is in constant communication with your brain, immune system, and metabolism through what scientists call the gut-brain axis, an always-on network of nerves, hormones, and signals that run in both directions.
So while that yogurt you just opened is a nod to the trillions of bacteria part of this ecosystem, new research increasingly finds that it takes more than gut-friendly foods to keep your microbiome happy.
Protect your sleep. It’s a two-way street: Poor sleep canreduce microbial diversity, while a healthier microbiome may promote more restorative rest. Consistent early natural light exposure and a regular bedtime routine help keep both in sync.
Take stress seriously. Your gut and brain talk via the vagus nerve, which means everyday stress can directly shift the composition of your gut bacteria. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to tip the balance in your favor.
Psst…love our recs? Follow @skimmshopping on Instagram for more products, gifts, and services that are actually worth the hype (and the price tag).
just one thing
A Root Awakening
Scalp routines are having a moment, and honestly, fair. Between sunscreen, sweat, chlorine, and whatever happens under a baseball cap, summer can leave the skin on your head just as clogged, itchy, and irritated as your face. Now is also peak shedding season, so give your scalp a little extra attention today — it’ll thank you later.
See bumps or flakes? Skip the trendy hair potions and look for ingredients that actually do something. And don’t try to shampoo your way through persistent pain, inflammation, or increased hair loss. Those are signs it’s time to check in with a dermatologist.
Dips do a lot of heavy lifting. They make any spread look like you tried harder than you did and can quietly deliver a nutrition boost while everyone's just there for the flavor. Snack on these solo, or bring one to your next summer hang. Tip: If you’re still bypassing the produce aisle, consider swapping fresh herbs for dried ones. And roast chicken strips, shrimp, or hardboiled egg wedges make great, protein-packed alternatives to crudité.
1. Viral "hippy dip" This TikTok-viral, Trader Joe's-inspired dip is about as low-effort as a healthy snack gets: pre-steamed lentils, bruschetta sauce, and diced avocado (or crumbled feta) pack in plant-based protein, healthy fats, and antioxidant-rich lycopene. Dump, stir, done.
2. High-protein "boat dip" If we were gonna be stuck at sea for a decade, this is the dip we’d want on deck. We like how this recipe swaps sour cream for Greek yogurt and cottage cheese to boost the protein but retain its creamy, scoopable texture. Pretty sure Odysseus would approve.
3. High-protein pickle dip This viral dip is a must for dill lovers. Cottage cheese, cream cheese, and Greek yogurt creates a smooth, protein-packed base. Bonus: pickles bring a little sodium back after a sweaty day, which can help with hydration.
No Notes
Have a question, comment, or just want to be friends? Reach out to us at well@theskimm.com
