Managing The Hot Season Naturally

As the harmattan season wears on, the atmosphere is naturally heated up and causes discomfort. Night time is usually hotter as the hot air comes down heating up most homes and causing sweat. Most afternoons are usually hotter with artificial pollution from cars and industry join with the hot air to heat up the air.
During this season many people battle with the discomfort of staying indoors while others seek the solace of air-conditioned rooms.
Unfortunately, the hot season is associated with lots of ailments such as asthma due to dust, headache, heat rashes and other communicable diseases such as measles, chicken pox and cough. Below are some things to do health wise to overcome the distress of the hot season:
1. Plan Your Day
Depending on how hot your locale is, there are definitely certain times of day that are essential to capitalise on. Before the sun rises and after it sets you have a few golden hours of cooler weather. Take this time to water your plants, go for a jog, or enjoy a meal outside.
2. Hydrate
Always drink enough water. So it’s advisable for one to always go along with waterflask or other brands of insulated water bottle that keeps water cold throughout the day. Hydration during the warm months is crucial.
3. Essential Oils
Peppermint and Spearmint Essential Oil, both contain menthol which have cooling properties. Add a few drops to your diffuser at home, or make your own body mist for when you’re on the go. You can even create event-specific essential oils by mixing different scents together.
4. Swim!
Take a dip in a local swimming hole, public pool, or even a kiddie pool in your backyard! There’s nothing better than submerging in cold water on a hot summer day.
5. Consume foods that are cooling to your internal systems. Go for sweet and ripe summer fruits, fresh veggies, and foods that are bitter or astringent rather than salty or spicy.
7. Infuse Your Water
Infuse your water with fresh fruits! This will encourage you to drink more water and will help suppress your sugar tooth. Try using mint, citrus, and ripe fruits in season.
8. Meditate
Sometimes we need to cool our minds as much as we need to cool our physical body. Take time every day to slow down and meditate. A few minutes of deep breathing and relaxation will go a long way.
9. Snacks
Make home-made popsicles and frozen fruits for your weekend adventures. Check out a few of our favourite recipes here.
10. Check your Pulse Points
There’s numerous pulse points on your body that can be used as cooling spots when in contact with cool water. You’re probably familiar with the points on your wrists and back of neck. Try putting a cool towel or running cool water over your feet, wrists, and temples. Wear a damp bandana when exercising outdoors.
12. Get Your Hair Did
Summer is a great time for change and a shift of perspective. Get a haircut and switch things up while simultaneously setting yourself up for a cooler summer. Keep your hair off the back of your neck to keep body temperatures lower.
13. Dress Light
Wear light colours and breathable fabrics, especially on those scorching days. We suggest cotton and linen.
14. Take More Showers
There’s nothing like a cold shower in the midst of a sweltering summer day. It doesn’t have to be an epic water-wasting shower—just a quick rinse will do the trick. Take them often!
15. Eat cooling fruits as a Cucumber and Watermelon
Keep a cucumber in your fridge and cut a couple slices to soothe your eyes after a long summer day. It will not only reduce puffiness and dark circles around eyes, but bring down the overall temperature of your body. Treat yourself!