The golden days of summer are here and while we may be super excited for the sunshine and good vibes, here are some tips to keep you healthy and vibrant through the season.
Stay hydrated
You know this already! Drinking water throughout the day, especially in the summer, will help replenish moisture and fluids in your body. Coconut water is a great liquid to replace electrolytes that get easily depleted by sweating in the hot sun. It is filled with vitamins and minerals and provides a nutrient rich and yummy treat. Try getting it straight from the coconut itself or even the young, raw, pink kind—it’s delicious! Remember to keep a water bottle with you so you can sip on it throughout the day. If you get to the point of being thirsty, you are already heading towards dehydration. Your skin and organs need a constant influx of water in order to maintain balance in the body.
Wear sunscreen
Many of us may think we don’t need sunscreen because of the melanin in our skin, but sorry to let you know that is not the case! The sun is intense and we need to create a barrier between the UV rays and our skin so that damage does not occur. It is important to apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, and SPF 50 is preferable. If you still get burned because you haven’t worn sunscreen or haven’t reapplied as required, you can use aloe vera gel or carrot lotion to help ease the soreness of your skin.
Wash your hands
In the spirit of being carefree and outdoors a lot more in the summer, it is easy to introduce all kinds of germs to the mix. When playing sports, being in the sand or grass, en route with travel and tourists, it’s a good measure to take care to wash up and avoid getting sick during the hot weather. Plus, it’s just not fun being under the weather when the weather is actually nice! Lather up with soap and water for at least 10-15 seconds in order for it to be effective. Another hot tip is to make sure to not touch your face unless you have washed your hands, as this is an easy way for germs to enter your system.
Eat cooling foods
Summertime is the best for local and organic foods that are readily available from farmer’s markets. According to Ayurveda, foods with naturally cooling properties like cucumbers and watermelon help to cool the body while providing a refreshing and nourishing treat. Other foods to dose up on during the summer are: honeydew melons, pineapple, celery, romaine lettuce and fresh leafy greens. Lime and lemon water, as well as the herb mint, can be added as a garnish to your food and drink. Yogurt in the form of raita or lassi are also good options to cool you down, as is ice cream, but of course the good kind with simple and natural ingredients. 🙂
Breathe deep and keep active
Sometimes summer can be overwhelming with the busy schedules and long hours maximizing the sunshine. In order to stay grounded and have the energy to keep up, make sure to take three deep belly breaths first thing in the morning. It takes ten seconds and can shift the way your entire day plays out. Planning your day to include mini breaks and time to recharge is super important and will help you master your day. Incorporating some gentle forms of movement like yoga or walking will help you to keep limber and agile, regardless of how active or restful your summer days become. Ultimately your body will thank you for taking good care of it during this season.
Hope these summer tips help you to enjoy and have an incredible summer in the city or out!
Written by: Anita Rajan