Releasing Summer’s Heat

by Olivia Fried

Are you feeling hot?
 
Even though we are nearing the end of summer according to the calendar, the heat of summer may accumulate in our bodies and minds creating discomfort and imbalances. These imbalances can show up as rashes, acid reflux, irritated eyes, impatience, irritability, and anger. 

Ayurvedic medicine (the oldest form of Holistic Medicine in the world!) provides various practices to eliminate that heat so that we can feel cooler and calmer:

• Start your day with a cool splash of water on your face and eyes followed by a spritz of rosewater. 
• Apply coconut oil to the skin followed by a cool to lukewarm shower. 
• Eat fresh, cooling foods such as cucumber, lettuce, melons, basmati rice, cilantro, jicama, celery and summer squash. Avoid oily, spicy foods and those with a lot of onion, garlic and chilis. 
• Reduce coffee and alcohol as these drinks heat the mind/body!
• Stay hydrated. Drink coconut water – without added sweeteners. 
• Use Essential Oils that are cooling: chamomile, geranium, jasmine, lavender, lemongrass, sandalwood, gardenia, lily, rose, honeysuckle and ylang ylang.
  

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Olivia is an Ayurvedic Practitioner, Massage Therapist and Yoga Teacher. She offers a variety of consultations supporting Holistic Self-Care or helping those wanting to take a deeper dive into the wellness practice of Ayurveda. You can contact her at olivia.ayurveda@gmail.com.