Ayurvedic Tips for a Cool and Refreshing Summer

As the temperature rises during the summer months, it’s essential to adapt our lifestyles and habits to stay cool and refreshed. According to Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine and wellness, balancing the body’s energies and adopting seasonal routines can greatly support overall well-being during the summer season. Dr Mangesh Desai & Dr Priyanka M Desai, renowned as the Best Ayurvedic doctor in Pune shares ayurvedic tips to help you keep cool and rejuvenated this summer:

• Stay Hydrated with Cooling Drinks: In Ayurveda, it’s recommended to stay hydrated with refreshing and cooling drinks. Opt for room temperature or cool water throughout the day. Additionally, infuse water with slices of cucumber, mint, or a splash of lime for added cooling properties. Herbal teas like peppermint or hibiscus are also excellent choices to keep you hydrated and cool.
• Favor Cooling Foods: Choose light and easy-to-digest foods that have cooling properties. Include plenty of fresh, seasonal fruits such as watermelon, cucumber, and berries in your diet. Salads with leafy greens, sprouts, and herbs like cilantro and mint are ideal. Avoid heavy, oily, and spicy foods as they can increase body heat and discomfort during summer.
• Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Ayurveda emphasizes protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure. Use natural sunscreens like coconut oil or almond oil, which can help to moisturize and protect the skin from UV rays. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and loose, light-colored clothing can also provide additional protection from the sun’s heat.
• Practice Pranayama and Yoga: Engage in calming and cooling yoga practices to balance the body and mind. Pranayama techniques like Sheetali (cooling breath) and Sheetkari (hissing breath) are particularly beneficial during summer. These breathing exercises can reduce body heat and promote relaxation.
• Follow a Daily Routine: Maintain a consistent daily routine that aligns with nature’s rhythms. Wake up early in the morning when it’s cool and practice self-care rituals like oil massage (abhyanga) using coconut or sesame oil. This helps to cool the body and calm the nervous system.
• Use Cooling Essential Oils: Incorporate cooling essential oils such as peppermint, lavender, or sandalwood into your daily routine. You can diffuse these oils at home or dilute them with a carrier oil to apply on pulse points for a cooling effect.
• Avoid Excessive Heat and Activity: During the hottest parts of the day, it’s wise to avoid strenuous activities and exposure to direct sunlight. Instead, plan outdoor activities during the cooler mornings or evenings. Take breaks in shaded areas and stay indoors during peak heat hours.
• Foster Emotional Balance: Summer can sometimes aggravate emotions such as irritability or impatience. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or gentle activities like walking in nature to maintain emotional equilibrium. Cultivate a positive mindset and embrace the beauty of the season.
• Stay Cool at Night: Ensure your sleeping environment promotes coolness and relaxation. Use light bedding made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Aromatic herbs like lavender or chamomile can be placed under your pillow to enhance sleep quality.
• Stay Connected to Nature: Lastly, spend time connecting with nature. Take leisurely walks in parks or near water bodies. Appreciate the beauty of the natural world around you, which can have a calming and cooling effect on both body and mind.

By incorporating these Ayurvedic tips into your summer routine, you can enhance your well-being and enjoy a cool, refreshing season ahead. Listen to your body’s signals, stay mindful of seasonal changes, and prioritize practices that promote balance and vitality during this time of the year. Embrace the essence of Ayurveda to thrive in harmony with nature this summer.