Many parts of the country have been experiencing a heat wave since mid June. When the outside weather is unusual, the outside energy is also unusual—to us. But to Nature, the energy is usual and expected—part of the natural flow.

How can we, as humans, be part of this natural processing when the temperature is so high and the weather is so hot? How can we use the inherited wisdom buried within us to endure this weather challenge and enjoy whatever is meant for us?

Look to Nature and let Qi be your guide. Follow these tips to cool down fast!

1. Avoid the ice! You may think it’s natural to add ice to your drinks in the heat of summer, but intense cold pushes the body and forces it to use more Qi. Because it taxes the digestive system, cold can also leave you feeling bloated, sluggish, and achy.
2. Enjoy cooling Summer foods. Nature will always provide an example. Look to foods that grow in Summer’s heat, such as watermelon, apricots, peaches, berries, cucumbers, tomatoes, avocados, cilantro, and mint. Watermelon tops the list of foods that have a cool essence. Enjoy the red flesh and the white rind, and use the juice topically to cool a sunburn or heat rash.
3. Head to the water! Our bodies are comprised mostly of water. Reconnect and cool down by taking a trip to the beach. Watch how the water laps up on the shore and the birds fly in and out of the water to fish. Dip your toe in the water and feel instantly refreshed.
4. Drink, but avoid overdrinking. Listen to your body. It knows when it is thirsty, hungry, or needs to rest. Many people carry bottles of ice water, especially during Summer. If you are continually drinking, you are ignoring the body’s messages. Are you truly always thirsty? Can you pause and wait for your body to give you a cue?
5. Be peaceful. When the weather is oppressively hot, Nature slows down. Animals intuitively know how to conserve their Qi. Avoid running outside in the heat, and take something new off of your plate every day to simplify your schedule. Follow your Heart, not your mind.

Learn More!

What does TCM say about Water and Dehydration?

What is the essence of Summer and what foods give the body healing messages? Read the blog here.