Ayurveda expert shares 3 unique ways to conquer the summer heat

One thought that keeps the mind clouded on a hut summer day is to figure ways to beat the heat, energize your body and keep cool all season long. Gorging on a summer-friendly diet or taking a relaxing dip in the pool are definite ways to dial down the side effects of heatwave. But even Ayurveda has a treasure trove of tips to stay cool in summer.

As the temperature rises during the summer season, it becomes essential to take care of our health and well-being. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers valuable insights and practices to help us stay cool, prevent sunstroke and maintain optimum energy levels during this time.

Also read: Hot tips for heatwave: Do’s and don’ts for staying cool this summer

Some Ayurveda tips to keep 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 are someone who loves a good mid-day nap, you are going to love this Ayurvedic tip to stay cool in summer! Contrary to general advice against daytime napping, Ayurveda suggests indulging in a rejuvenating afternoon nap during summer, known as Diva-Swapa. Dr Savaliya explained that this practice helps restore energy and combat mental and physical fatigue caused by the hot weather. Additionally, it increases the kapha dosha, which provides moisture and lubrication to the body, helping 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 duration, enhance alertness, cognitive performance, and mood. Daytime napping has been shown to improve memory consolidation and decrease subjective feelings of fatigue and sleepiness. Therefore, a well-timed nap can contribute to increased energy levels and overall well-being during summer!

2. Spending time under the moon

This tip will definitely take you to the good old times when we used to lie on a manji (folding bed) under the ceiling of stars in the cool breezy night. Ayurveda suggests spending time outdoors at night during summer, especially under the moon, to alleviate daytime exhaustion. A night-time stroll under the moonlight might be helpful too. Spending time under moonlight helps cool 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, enhancing sleep quality and duration. Moreover, spending time in natural environments, including moonlit nights, has been associated with reduced stress and improved mood.

3. Drinking naturally cooled water and drinks

Ayurveda emphasises the significance of consuming naturally cooled water during summer. Storing water in clay or earthen pots helps naturally cool it, and infusing it with herbs like lotus, rose, vetiver, mint, and coriander further enhances its cooling properties. Additionally, Ayurveda recommends refreshing drinks such as bilva (bael), fennel, mint, coconut water, sugarcane juice, sattu, and gulkand, along with juicy cooling fruits like grapes, watermelon, and pomegranate.

Studies have shown that storing water in earthen pots can help maintain its temperature lower than ambient conditions. The porous nature of clay allows for evaporation, resulting in cooler water.

While traditional Ayurvedic practices have been widely embraced, scientific studies provide additional evidence to support the effectiveness of these recommendations and it will be beneficial to give these Ayurvedic tips a try to stay cool this summer!