Healthy Information

Some Cool Summer Health Tips Jun 12, 2008
Dr. Carlos Santo

 

When summer is here our bodies let us know. You might see it in a co-worker, family member, or friend – they’re a little short-tempered, quicker to react, or a bit less patient than usual. You may notice in yourself some uncharacteristically restless sleep, a little heartburn, or your skin breaks out in rashes, acne, or hives.

All of these are common in the hot weather season and, according to the ancient Ayurvedic system of health and healing, and all relate to the fire element known as pitta. Some people have more pitta than others already, so this time of year can be challenging for them. These are more of the A-type personality--aggressive in life, love, and business, and they are more prone to disorders of the heart, upper digestive tract, skin, and hair than their calmer, cooler friends.

So what to if you’re feeling a little hotter under the collar than you’re used to? Check out these handy summer season strategies:

Enjoy cooling summer beverages –duh, right? But this means more than just throwing ice cubes in your drinks. Nutritious bevies such as almond or rice milk, or kombucha make excellent warm day companions.

Choose "cooling" exercises – it seems a no-brainer to suggest you avoid high-level cardio at the peak of the day outdoors, but invariably we see people pushing themselves harder than ever. This aggravates pitta to no end and could detract from your health. Try instead a yoga class, swimming, or a fun bike ride. Exercise and recreation should not be another source of stress and competition, so make it enjoyable and you’re more likely to stick with it.

Chill – we all need this, which is why I do yoga every day. The breathing techniques of yoga (down deep into the belly) are so cooling and relaxing, and they reduce your pitta almost immediately.

Smell the roses – aromatherapy scents can be intensely calming. Rose oil is considered an Ayurvedic first choice. You can add some rose petals to your drinking water and even your bathwater for an added bonus effect.

Herbal teas and formulas – many herbs and teas have cooling effects. Some of my summer favorites are peppermint, aloe, chamomile, and catnip (careful cat owners, it has a different effect on our furry friends)

Watch your BBQ’s – heavy, fried, or greasy foods will irritate your internal furnace and can cause a host of health problems in the hot months. Keep these foods to a minimum and you’ll be paying the power companies less to cool your home, for sure.

Enjoy a pitta reducing diet full of in-season fruits and veggies such as berries, watermelon, leafy greens, daikon, and more. Just check out your local farmer’s markets for the latest items available.

Check out http://www.mapi.com/ for further strategies on how subdue the pitta before it burns you out.  The world of Ayurveda is a great resource on how we can all better live in harmony with our environment.