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The monsoon is still a few weeks away, and the temperature in the subcontinent is expected to soar in the coming days. The working population of the land may find themselves battling fatigue, irritability, and dehydration during this time. According to Ayurveda, summer is when pitta dosha—the energy associated with heat and transformation—tends to go out of balance. Managing this requires conscious lifestyle adjustments that align with the body’s natural rhythms. Here’s how you can stay cool and energised through the summer while meeting the demands of your work life.

Start Your Day the Cooling Way

The ideal summer day begins early, before the sun gets too strong. Waking up at dawn allows you to tap into the calm and coolness of the morning air. Ayurveda recommends starting the day with an oil massage or abhyanga using coconut or Brahmi oil. This not only nourishes the skin but also helps calm pitta and prepare you to face the heat outside. A bath with lukewarm or slightly cool water, optionally infused with rose petals or neem leaves, refreshes the body and clears away excess heat.

Choosing the right clothing is another simple yet effective way to manage summer heat. Light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen in soft pastel shades help maintain comfort during long office hours or while commuting under the harsh sun.

Eat to Beat the Heat

Diet plays a central role in balancing the body’s inner heat. Ayurveda suggests favouring foods that are naturally sweet, bitter, and astringent during summer. Start your day with fruits like melons, pears, or soaked raisins, which hydrate and cool the body. For lunch, which should be the main meal of the day, opt for rice, chapatis, green vegetables, and dishes prepared with cooling herbs like mint and coriander. A bowl of cucumber raita or a glass of buttermilk makes an excellent accompaniment.

Hydration is key during summer, especially for those working in air-conditioned offices, which can be drying. Sipping water stored in an earthen pot, or drinking coconut water and herbal infusions like coriander or fennel tea, can help maintain electrolyte balance and keep pitta in check.

Staying Cool During Work Hours

While at work, it’s important to take small breaks to cool down. Splashing water on the face, using a rose water mist, or practising simple breathing exercises like Sheetali and Sheetkari pranayama can immediately reduce body heat and calm the mind. Try to avoid stepping out in the peak afternoon hours, but if unavoidable, protect yourself from direct sunlight with sunglasses and a light scarf or cap.

Evenings for Recovery and Rest

Evenings should be reserved for recovery. A light, easy-to-digest dinner helps the body settle down for restful sleep. Avoid heavy, fried, or spicy foods that can spike heat levels. Limiting screen time before bed is also crucial, as the artificial light can disturb sleep patterns and aggravate pitta. Sleeping in a well-ventilated, cool room with the soothing aroma of sandalwood or vetiver can further aid relaxation.

By adopting these simple yet effective Ayurvedic practices, busy professionals can not only overcome the harshness of the summer but also maintain energy, focus, and overall well-being through the season.

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