Elevated Awareness | July 2026
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
Summer is in full swing, Lincoln County!
While the rest of the state might be sweltering, we are lucky enough to have the stunning, cool Sacramento Mountains right in our backyard.
This July, we are blending national health awareness with the incredible outdoor fitness opportunities our high-country home provides. Slather on the sunscreen. Compete in the IRONMAN? Grab your water bottle, lace up your hiking boots, and let’s dive into a healthy July!
UV Safety Month: Catching Elevation, Not Burns
Did you know that UV radiation increases by about 10% to 12% for every 1,000 meters (about 3,280 feet) of elevation? Up here in the mountains, our air is thinner and cleaner, which means fewer UV rays are filtered out.
Protecting your skin doesn't mean staying indoors—it just means being smart on the trail:
The 30+ Rule: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher 30 minutes before heading out.
Reapply on the Fly: Sweat washes away protection. Reapply every two hours, especially if you're conquering a steep incline.
Gear Up: A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses are mountain-hiking essentials.
Parks & Recreation Month: Nature’s Gym
July is National Parks and Recreation Month, and we are celebrating by taking our workouts to the trails. Immersing yourself in our local forests isn't just great physical exercise—it’s a proven mental health booster, reducing cortisol (stress) levels and clearing the mind.
Your July Trail Challenge: Swap one indoor gym session this week for a brisk walk, jog, or bike ride on one of our local trails. Whether you are strolling around Grindstone Lake or tackling a path in the Lincoln National Forest, you are getting a world-class workout in a cooler, shaded environment.
Peak Observances
UV Safety Month: Emphasises protecting the skin from sun damage, preventing skin cancer, and recognizing heat exhaustion.
National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month: Aims to improve mental health awareness and reduce stigma in underrepresented communities.
Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month: Highlights the challenges faced by children and teens living with rheumatic diseases.
Social Wellness Month: Promotes the importance of healthy relationships and community connection for overall well-being.
Cord Blood Awareness Month: Educates expectant parents on banking options and the life-saving potential of stem cells. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Key Awareness Days
July 10: Chronic Disease Awareness Day – Focuses on supporting individuals living with long-term health conditions and advocating for better care resources. [1, 2, 3]
July 22: World Brain Day – Promotes neurological health and brain disease prevention. [1, 2]
July 25: World Drowning Prevention Day – An international WHO campaign raising awareness about drowning prevention and water safety. [1, 2]
July 28: World Hepatitis Day – A global World Health Organization initiative to raise awareness of viral hepatitis and encourage testing and treatment. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
<< IRONMAN 70.3 EVENT 7/12/26 info >>
Hydration Station: The Mountain Myth
Because the mountain air is cool and breezy, you might not feel yourself sweating as much as you would in the desert flats. Don't let the crisp air fool you! High altitude increases your respiratory rate, meaning you lose moisture just by breathing.
Activity Level | Recommended Water Intake |
Leisurely Walking / Rest | 2–3 Litres per day |
Moderate Mountain Hiking | An extra 1 Litre (approx. 32 oz) for every 2 hours on the trail |
High-Intensity Trail Running | Sip 4–6 oz of water/electrolyte mix every 15–20 minutes |
Tip: Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. If you feel thirsty, you're already mildly dehydrated!
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