by One thought that keeps the mind cloudy on a summer day at a cabin is finding ways to beat the heat, energize your body, and stay cool all season long. Gulping down a summer-friendly diet or taking a relaxing dip in the pool are definite ways to reduce the side effects of a heat wave. But even Ayurveda has a treasure trove of tips for staying cool in the summer.
As the temperature increases during the summer season, it becomes essential to take care of our health and well-being. Ayurveda, India’s ancient system of medicine, offers valuable information and practices to help us stay cool, prevent heat stroke, and maintain optimal energy levels during this time.
Also Read: Important Heat Wave Tips: Do’s and Don’ts to Stay Cool This Summer
Some Ayurveda tips to keep you cool this summer
Dr. Dixa Bhavsar Savaliya, a renowned Ayurvedic doctor, in her recent Instagram post, recommends three Ayurvedic tips for a refreshing and energizing summer. Let’s explore these tips:
1. Afternoon nap
If you’re someone who loves a good midday nap, you’ll love this Ayurvedic tip to stay cool in the summer! Contrary to the general advice against napping during the day, Ayurveda suggests enjoying a rejuvenating afternoon nap during the summer, known as Diva-Swapa. Dr. Savaliya explained that this practice helps restore energy and combat mental and physical exhaustion caused by heat. In addition, it increases the kapha dosha, which provides moisture and lubrication to the body, helping to balance the dryness and heat of summer.
A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research also indicates that short naps, specifically 20 to 30 minutes in length, improve alertness, cognitive performance, and mood. Daytime naps have been shown to improve memory consolidation and decrease subjective feelings of fatigue and sleepiness. Therefore, a well-timed nap can help boost energy levels and general well-being during the summer.
2. Spend time under the moon
This tip will definitely take you back to the old days when we used to lie on a manji (folding bed) under the star roof in the cool and windy night. Ayurveda suggests spending time outdoors at night during the summer, especially under the moon, to relieve daytime fatigue. A night walk under the moonlight can also be helpful. Spending time under the moonlight helps to refresh the mind and body, promoting restful sleep.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism suggests that exposure to natural light, such as moonlight, helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, improving the quality and duration of sleep. Additionally, spending time in natural settings, including moonlit nights, has been associated with reduced stress and improved mood.
3. Drink water and naturally cooled beverages
Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of consuming naturally cooled water during the summer. Storing water in clay or earthenware vessels helps to cool it naturally, and infusing it with herbs such as lotus, rose, vetiver, mint, and coriander further enhances its cooling properties. Also, Ayurveda recommends refreshing drinks like bilva (bael), fennel, mint, coconut water, sugarcane juice, sattu, and gulkand, along with juicy refreshing fruits like grapes, watermelon, and pomegranate.
Studies have shown that storing water in clay pots can help keep its temperature below ambient conditions. The porous nature of clay allows for evaporation, resulting in cooler water.
While traditional Ayurvedic practices have been widely accepted, scientific studies provide additional evidence to support the effectiveness of these recommendations and it will be beneficial to try these Ayurvedic tips for staying cool this summer.
