As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, it’s time to start thinking about summer wellness. Yes, wellness occurs all year round, but there’s something about the warmer months that make us want to focus on taking care of ourselves a little bit more.
There are endless wellness trends out there, and it can be hard to know which ones are worth our time and money. But don’t worry, we’ve done the research for you.
Here are 12 wellness essentials you need to get your hands on to help you enjoy a healthy and happy summer season.
*Some affiliate links are used, which means, if you purchased something, we may earn a commission.*
1. Cruelty-Free Sunscreen
Last year I wrote a blog post covering the three items you need when taking outdoor photos and this item still makes the list because it’s just that important! A sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher should be reapplied every two hours, even on cloudy days.
I love both Fenty Sunscreen and Black Girl Sunscreen because they’re made with natural ingredients, they don’t leave my skin feeling greasy, and provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Get this, both products are cruelty-free, vegan, and reef safe so you can enjoy the summer without harming yourself or the environment.
Out of the two, black girl sunscreen is a non-negotiable for me whether I’m taking photos outside or having a brunch date with a friend. This product is that good.
Black Girl Sunscreen
Fenty Skin
2. Hydrating Water
I was first introduced to this alkaline water in August 2021 and it is hands down the best-tasting water around. Jove stands out because they’ve put their money where their mouth is by conducting thorough research to ensure anyone who drinks Jove water is experiencing deep hydration.
The benefits of alkaline water are vast, but in short, it can help improve digestion, support the immune system, and even give you more energy.
3. Sustainable Bed Sheets
By a show of comments, how many of you own eucalyptus sheets? I’m slowly but surely making the switch to sustainable bedding and my most recent find are these eucalyptus sheets from Sheets & Giggles.
Not only are they softer than cotton sheets, but they also regulate temperature better so you don’t have to worry about waking up in a pool of sweat during the summer months. My husband calls them my “good sheets” and I have to say I wholeheartedly agree.
4. Cruelty-Free Women’s Vitamins
In my most recent post featuring First Day vitamins, I talked about how much these vitamins made me a believer in finding chewable vitamins that taste great and that provide the nutrients I need without any fillers.
I’m always on the lookout for wellness essentials that make me feel good and these vitamins do just that. Not to mention, they’re made with natural ingredients, are cruelty-free, and are affordably priced. If you’re in the market for a new vitamin, I highly recommend giving these a try during the summer to see if you want to stick with it. Use my code for 10% off KBIB10
5. BPA Free Water Bottles
When taking advantage of the summer weather, a way I stay motivated is by having 1-2 colorful water bottles in hand.
I fill them up with cold water in the morning and make sure to drink all of it throughout the day. Not only does this keep me hydrated, but it also ensures I’m getting my daily recommended intake of water.
I listed tons of BPA-free water bottles on the blog so be sure to click the link to read the ones I recommend.
6. Sustainable Toothbrushes
I’m always looking for ways to reduce my carbon footprint and one way I do that is by using a bamboo toothbrush. Bamboo toothbrushes are sustainable, eco-friendly, and just as effective as regular toothbrushes.
Plus, they come in a large pack so you don’t have to worry about running out anytime soon. I highly recommend making the switch to a bamboo toothbrush if you haven’t already. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in the long run!
7. Plant-Based Protein Powder
If you follow me on Instagram, then you know I’m a huge fan of Form Protein Powder. Their protein powder is plant-based, organic, and free from all the fillers and additives that most protein powders have.
Their recovery protein powder literally tastes 10x better than any other protein powder I’ve ever tried and I’m not even exaggerating. It’s the perfect way to refuel after a workout or a long day in the sun.
8. Coconut Oil Epsom Salt
Since getting injured, having this near my bathtub has meant everything to my nightly routine. Not only does it help with any aches and pains I’m experiencing, but it also leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated.
If you don’t have coconut oil Epsom salt, I highly recommend getting 3 packs of Dr. Teal’s coconut oil Epsom salt.
9. Fruit Infused Water Bottle
During the summer, I make it a point to drink at least 90 ounces of water per day. If you live in Florida like me, this is incredibly easy to do lol.
To make sure I’m getting my daily recommended intake, I like to infuse my water with fruit. This way, I’m not only getting hydrated but I’m also getting a little dose of vitamins and antioxidants.
10. Purchase Self Help Books For Black Women
If you’re new here, you most likely discovered my blog on Google. My most popular posts are powerful affirmations and self-help books. I want to continue to emphasize how important it is for black women to arm themselves with knowledge.
One way we can do this is by reading self-help books that were written with us in mind. I have an entire list of the best self-help books for black women, so be sure to check it out!
11. Invest In Zero Waste Shaving Cream
For many black women, we can relate to using some of the most popular shaving cream brands we often used in our households like Skintimate and Gilette. The Kabrena today is all about looking at the ingredients in our household and eliminating the ones that are harmful to our health.
One wellness essential I’ve recently invested in is a zero-waste shaving bar. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s also better for my skin!
12. Black-Owned Yoga Mat
As a black woman practicing wellness, I’m acutely aware of how this space is dominated by white women. I teach dance and pilates and see very few women who look like me in these wellness spaces.
One way we can create more representation is by investing in black-owned businesses, especially those in the wellness industry. Their yoga mats are made thick, and vibrant, and provide so much support to any black woman taking a yoga or pilates class during the summer.
The Summer Essentials To Get Behind
If you’re looking to adopt a wellness lifestyle this summer, be sure to check out the list above! These are all great essentials that will help you reach your fitness goals, stay hydrated, and feel your best.
Don’t forget to also invest in black-owned businesses – they need our support, sis.
