Here are some tips and suggestions to make the most of the glory of summer.

*Sip. During the warm days ahead, be sure to drink at least seven glasses of liquid a day, preferably water. A new study I've just read indicated that those people, who drank at least seven glasses of water a day, reduced their normal food intake by over 200 calories. That means by enjoying just a little more water, you could be in skinnier jeans by the fall. Without dieting. Need a reason to have a glass of water? That's the best and well worth celebrating.

*Stroll. With longer hours of daylight, it's time to get friendly. Take time to enjoy the neighborhood and your neighbor's gardens when you're walking. Cut your brisk pace in half and be sure to stop and chat with people who are also out walking. Swing your arms, straighten your posture and smile when you're walking. Physiological studies show that the brain really thinks you have something to smile about when your lips curl up at the edges.

*Swing or sit. Find a place where you won't be disturbed and sit. Park swings or benches are perfect, but your backyard works well, too. As you're sitting, allow your mind to wander. Too often in our fast-paced lives we don't let our brains relax. Trust me-we all need this. When you're sitting, hum a tune that makes you happy.

*Get wet. Enjoy swimming, whether you're at the pool or the lake. I love the sidestroke when I'm enjoying simple pleasures. It's slow and fluid; you can't rush the sidestroke. Be sure to wear waterproof sunscreen and add a hat when you're just lounging around.

*Bicycle. Get a helmet and dress appropriately. Select trails or pathways where you'll be safe. Try a Sunday afternoon bike ride; it'll put you in the right mind frame to tackle anything that Monday can and will throw at you.

*Reach for it. Have you found the joy in stretching and doing yoga? You don't have to follow any rules to stretch, yet you'll want to remember it's never safe to bob and bounce. If you do this to get just a little further into the stretch you could end up with a sport's injury. There are wonderful books and videos on these topics; rent one this week for a simple pleasure time.

*Get your hands dirty in the garden. Health studies prove what we gardeners already know: Being outside, planting, digging and watching nature improves emotional balance. Dr. Eva Shaw, noted expert on gardening as therapy, says, "Information found in the newest medical new studies prove that those of us who garden are physically stronger and healthier. More so, children who suffer from attention disorders are better able to concentrate at home and school if they're outdoors, in green areas, at least 30 minutes a day."

*Get silly and be a kid again. Play catch, basketball, roller skate or hopscotch. Get on the floor and play marbles with your kids or grandchildren.

*Pull out your dancing shoes. Did you watch "Dancing with the Stars"? Ballroom dancing is hot, so check with your local parks and recreation department and see if they have classes that might interest you. Slow dancing to soothing music can satisfy most of us. You don't need a partner either. Slow dancing when you're alone allows you to exaggerate the experience and brings even more pleasure.

*Lavish your body with attention. Enjoy a bule bath. Light some candles. Put on some music. Dim the lights. Sip sparkling water. Tune out the world for at least 30 minutes. Give yourself a foot massage, too.

*Pamper yourself and feast on the best. Make it a practice to choose the plumpest, freshest piece of fruit you can. Splurge on this divine indulgence. Remember even if you're buying the perfect peach and it's not peach season, the fruit is better for your body than a candy bar or a box of chips that might cost less.

Why not enjoy the simply divine diversions next week? Share them with your best friend, too, and you'll both be motivated to stay fit for life.