It’s that time of the year when one of the most predictable questions begins to pop-up, “It’s hot, isn’t it?” Summers can be extremely cruel with the heat beating down on many. Now while there isn’t much you can do about the sweltering temperature outside, you can tackle the heat by keeping your body and mind cool. Here are some ways to beat the heat:
When it is bright, eat light
Heavy foods, high in spices and fats, aren’t a great idea in summers as they take a long time to digest and slow down your metabolism. The best bet is to eat small and light meals throughout the day. Foods like tomatoes, cucumbers, leafy vegetables, and onions are high in water content, can be digested easily, and provide energy too. This way, your body will not feel heavier and you will be energized throughout the day.
Hydrate and hydrate
Make water your best friend during the summer season. During the summer season, heat and sweat and leave your body dehydrated. Also, the lack of water can make you crave for food even if you are not hungry. So, make sure that you keep your body hydrated at all times. Drink at least 8-9 glasses of water during the day. Also, if you get bored of water, you can always infuse it with fruits or opt for drinks like coconut water and green tea.
Workout in moderation
Heavy workouts can leave you drained and tired. This, coupled with long exposure to the sun, may cause a heat stroke. So, limit your hours in the gym. Another way to fill your work-out quota during summers is to take a dip in the pool as it is not only a complete body workout but also helps you keep your body cool. You could also try a simple routine at home – push-ups, planks, and squats. However, all workouts create heat in the body. So, if you want your body to cool down, try some stretching and light yoga poses.
Take a cold water shower
One of the fastest ways to cool your body down is to step into a cold water shower. It will instantly take the heat off and make you feel refreshed. Placing an ice pack on your neck or wiping your face with a wet towel could do the trick too. Also, showering before you go to bed will help you sleep better.
Wear light fabrics
There’s a reason light fabrics, bright colors, and floral prints come back into vogue every summer – the trend helps you stay cool as darker shades tend to absorb heat. Stick to fabrics like cotton and linen and avoid synthetics.
A major mistake people make is to wear less. Shorts and strappy tops may be a good idea but a loose, thin shirt and linen trousers would protect your body from the UV-rays. You could pair your clothes with a scarf and comfortable footwear, which will make great fashion sense.
Making smaller changes in your daily habits will help you cope with the temperature, keep your body relaxed, and have a jolly summer.