Ayurveda tips and tricks to stay cool this summer!

By Dr. Sharon Samuel

The steady northward journey of the Sun began with uttarayana and as human beings belonging to the oldest civilisation that was, we not only survived summer but also devised different hacks to protect ourselves while harnessing the power of the heat for health. We used the Sun and it’s heat to prepare appalams and vadams, pickles and sun-dried delicacies, moisture free, self-preserved spice powders that can be stored and used for months together. We used the heat outside to bring warmth within the community by creating such leisure opportunities to come together, share stories and experiences while staying productively occupied. I am always in awe of the synergetic view of our cultural heritage.  

Ayurveda, the science of life, puts forth every Rtu (season) as an renewed chance to understand oneself, align with nature and heal through the transitions. In Greeshma Rtu (summer), the sun takes over. It shines brighter, the temperature gradually rises, dryness sets in and the body begins to adapt to the harsh environmental conditions. This leads to alteration in the bodily doshas.  Kapha dosha from the Vasantha (Spring) settles down and Vata dosha begins to pick up pace along with a slight, fleeting elevation of Pitta. There is increased sweating and vasodilation that promotes cooling as well as resulting in increased water loss. There are some other subtle changes like adjustments in the circadian rhythm, increased BMR and energy needs, skin adaptations and mood changes. There are advantages too like Vitamin D production which can be enough to sustain us through darker and colder months. Sunlight is known to elevate serotonin levels and thereby create a better and positive mood. When planned well, summers can be seasons of happiness and optimum mental well-being, paving way for a healthier year to come.

Here are a few simple tips to help ease the fiery months of summer:

Stay hydrated without disturbing the appetite

We are prone to dehydration in summer and this leaves us with a constant feeling of fatigue. Drinking water through the day can instantly correct this state. The catch here is that water lowers your appetite. To avoid this, consciously choose to include water-rich fruits and vegetables like melons, cucumbers, gourds. Drink more buttermilk, freshly squeezed sugarcane juice, mango juice, milk, water infused with cucumber or mint. Avoid excessive consumption of ice-cold beverages as they can disrupt digestion very easily. There is also a clear warning to avoid alcohol and reduce caffeine.

Planned diet to nourish right, knowing Vata is in charge

Summer brings an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. Incorporating them into your daily meals. Enjoy the colour and the variety. They provide the exact amount of nutrition and nature enables this by packing it with all the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your overall health. Lean towards sweet tasting food (not refined sugar!) and keep the spicy ones away. Food that is easy to digest with more liquid component, possessing cooling properties is the best choice. A good serving of complex carbohydrates and healthy fats are essential to balance vata and kapha.  Thin meat soups and thick unctuous gruels are advised. Avoid skipping food or fasting. Eat in a calm and peaceful environment, chew your food thoroughly, and most importantly, avoid overeating

Physical Activity with adequate rest and sleep

Summer means longer day time. This means more activity/awake time and lesser rest/disturbed sleep time. It is important to prioritize rest and ensure that you are getting sufficient sleep each night. This helps to keep vata in check. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a cool, dark, and noise-free sleeping environment can stabilise sleep routine. Doze off early and wake up before the sun in the morning, when the weather is cooler. Take advantage of the morning sunlight and engage in gentle activities like yoga or meditation. Practice abhyanga followed by a refreshing shower every day to keep the body cool and relaxed. Avoid excessive physical or mental exertion. Take a nap if need be and simply rest more, especially in the hot summer afternoons.

Mental Well-being in togetherness

Summer is an ideal time to prioritize mental health. Kapha is coming down and vata is taking over which will leave you craving for love and attention. Self-care will help and so will right companionship. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as spending time with loved ones, healthy discussion on topics of interest or pursuing hobbies. Use cooling face masks, hair packs and give yourself some extra care with relaxing mud baths! Take out your pearl jewellery and use it everyday. Surround yourself with people you love. Be mindful of the pleasant everyday sounds and keep your stress levels down. Hug more, cuddle more, let the warm fuzzies envelop you with contentment. 

Modify the environment and enjoy the Sun

During this season, the sun becomes destructive and dry. Direct exposure to the sun is best avoided. Wear protective clothing, such as hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable fabrics that cover the skin without smothering it. Make umbrellas your best friend. Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM) to minimize sun exposure. Surround yourself with plants or spend more time in gardens. Protect your senses from excessive heat, wind, and bright sunlight. Create a cool and comfortable environment by using light fabrics, keeping rooms well-ventilated, and using natural cooling aids like a cool mist humidifier or a fan. Cooling fragrances such as rose, chandan, usheera are helpful to soothe the body and mind. Moonlight exposure is also considered beneficial in this season. Use of fragrant fresh wet flowers on the bed or for floral compress, using flowers for bath and fragrance and application of sandalwood lepa is beneficial. 

So, let’s bask in the summer sun, knowing that we have to maintain a controlled vata increase and also enable kapha stability. This is easily achieved with a right way of life. Following the rules of nature will preserve energy and help prepare the body for a healthier varsha rtu . Let us make our summer wholesome.