Combating the Heat: Lifestyle

The study of Ayurveda provides tips for keeping your cool in the sweltering heat.

Include: 

• Establish a regular routine, including going to bed before 10pm (excess heat kicks into high gear from 10pm-2am), eating meals at regular times, and daily oil massage with sunflower or coconut oil can help balance the body. 
• Take a dip in cool water. If a natural spring, lake or ocean is not accessible, have a cool soak in a pool or your own bathtub. 
• Wear thin, light, cooling colored clothing, such as blue, purple or white. 
• Exercise in the cool morning, or evening hours. 
• Take strolls in the evening - During the nights spend time on the terrace  
• Use perfumes with sandalwood fragrance regularly. 
• Include leisure time doing things you enjoy. Take an afternoon nap. 
• Stay indoors as much as possible 
• Sleep on your right side, this facilitates cooling left nostril breathing 
• In Ayurveda, Shitli Pranayama is said to be cooling 
• Take breaks, meditate, chant, or sing to quell the reactive emotions of high stress situations or stressful job environments. 

Remove: 

• Avoid heated confrontations, deadline pressures, and long commutes 
• Limit sunbathing 
• Avoid exposure to chemicals or fumes.