As the summer sun blazes over India, the heat can take a toll not just on your body, but also on your mind and spirit. The soaring temperatures can leave you feeling drained, dehydrated, and stressed. But the good news is that with the right habits, you can not only survive the scorching months but actually thrive!
Summer wellness is all about staying cool inside and out, making mindful choices to nourish your body, calm your mind, and protect your skin. In this article, we’ll dive into simple but effective wellness practices that will help you stay energized, refreshed, and balanced throughout the season.
1. Hydrate like a Pro: Drink More Than Just Water
In the Indian summer, hydration goes beyond just drinking water. While water is essential, your body also needs electrolytes to maintain fluid balance and prevent heat-related issues like fatigue or heatstroke. To beat the heat and replenish your body:
- Coconut Water – Naturally rich in electrolytes, coconut water is an excellent thirst quencher. It helps to rehydrate and cool the body from the inside.
- Buttermilk (Chaas) – A popular Ayurvedic remedy, buttermilk is packed with probiotics and cooling properties. Add a pinch of roasted cumin and mint leaves for extra relief.
- Herbal Infusions – Sipping on fresh herbal drinks like mint tea or lemon balm tea can keep you refreshed without the added sugar or preservatives.
- Infused Water – Add slices of fruits like cucumber, lime, or watermelon to your water for a naturally refreshing taste and added vitamins.
Pro Tip – Try drinking at least 3-4 liters of fluids each day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors or in the sun.
2. Eat Cooling Foods to Calm Your Body
Ayurveda suggests that food plays a crucial role in managing the elements of heat and balance. During the summer months, it’s important to focus on foods that are cooling and easy to digest. Here are some cooling foods you can include in your summer diet:
- Cucumbers – This hydrating vegetable is perfect for summer. Whether you add it to a salad or eat it as a snack, it helps cool down your body.
- Coconut – From coconut water to coconut milk, or even fresh coconut, this superfood is packed with cooling properties that hydrate and refresh the body.
- Yogurt – Fresh yogurt is not only soothing but also aids digestion. Enjoy it as a raita or smoothie, and it will help cool your digestive system while providing much-needed probiotics.
- Watermelon & Muskmelon – These fruits are high in water content and provide natural sugars and hydration, making them perfect for hot days.
- Mint – Fresh mint has natural cooling properties. Add it to your drinks, salads, or even teas for an instant refreshing boost.
Bonus Tip – Avoid spicy, oily, and fried foods as they can increase body heat and lead to indigestion during the summer.
3. Keep Your Skin Protected and Glowing
The summer sun can damage your skin if you’re not careful, leading to premature aging, sunburns, and other skin issues. But with proper skincare, you can enjoy the summer while protecting your skin. Here’s what to do:
- Sunscreen – Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Reapply every two hours, especially when sweating or swimming.
- Aloe Vera – This plant is a cooling wonder. Apply fresh aloe vera gel to your face or body after sun exposure to soothe and hydrate your skin.
- Face Mist – Keep a bottle of rose water or cucumber mist handy for a quick, refreshing face spritz during the day. It helps calm your skin and keeps you feeling cool.
- Hydrating Moisturizer – Use a light, water-based moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and soft, especially if you spend time in air-conditioned rooms or outdoors.
Tip – Don’t forget your lips! Apply a nourishing lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from chapping and sun damage.
4. Exercise Early or Indoors
While summer is not the best time for outdoor fitness in the midday sun, it’s still essential to stay active. Opt for exercises that won’t make you overheat and help keep your energy levels up:
- Early Morning Workouts – The early morning hours, before 8 AM, are perfect for outdoor exercises. Go for a walk, jog, or practice yoga in the cool breeze before the sun gets intense.
- Swimming – If you have access to a pool, swimming is one of the best ways to stay fit during the summer. It keeps you cool while providing a full-body workout.
- Indoor Yoga or Pilates – Yoga helps cool the body through breathing exercises like Sheetali Pranayama (cooling breath). Focus on gentle stretches and relaxation.
- Cycling – If you prefer cycling, do it early in the morning or in the evening, avoiding peak heat hours.
Tip – Remember to hydrate well before and after exercise to avoid dehydration in the heat.
5. Sleep Cool, Sleep Well
Sleep is critical for overall health, and during the hot summer months, good sleep can become elusive. Follow these tips to ensure you get restful sleep:
- Keep Your Bedroom Cool – Use a fan or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature. If you don’t have AC, sleep with windows open to allow fresh air to circulate.
- Cool Your Body – Before bed, try taking a lukewarm shower or a cold foot bath to bring down your body temperature.
- Avoid Heavy Meals – Eating a heavy, spicy meal right before bedtime can disrupt your sleep. Stick to lighter, cooling foods for dinner.
Pro Tip – A sleep mask can help block out excess light, especially if you’re sleeping during the day or in a bright room.
Conclusion – Embrace the Season with Balance
Summer can be a time for relaxation, rejuvenation, and connection with nature, but only if you take the time to care for your body and mind. By incorporating these cooling habits into your routine, you can enjoy the season fully—without the discomfort or burnout that often comes with the heat.
This summer, make wellness a priority. From staying hydrated to eating cooling foods, practicing mindfulness, and protecting your skin, these small changes can have a big impact on how you feel. So, stay cool, stay healthy, and make this summer your best one yet!
