Staying Balanced in Summer

The summer season brings heat. Of the 5 elements (space, air, fire, water and earth), it is the element of fire that dominates this season. For those of you who have a healthy dose of fire or Pitta in your constitution, it is a time to be careful, because your internal fire is amplified by the heat of summer. The summer is also a time of weakness in the body. So pay attention to what your body is asking for and don't push it beyond its capacity. I often give up my intense weight training for cooler options like hiking and swimming.

Think cool. Think alkaline. Think gentle. 

Here are my favourite tips. 

• Eat more fresh, sweet, juicy foods. Natural fruit sugars are cooling and a great option - watermelon, blueberries, peaches and cherries are some of my favourites. 
• Along with sweet, favour the tastes of bitter and astringent. Easy bitter and astringent foods to add in are leafy greens and green vegetables (what's growing seasonally and locally is likely your best bet). For more pure astringent, go with fruits like pomegranate, apple and cranberries. 
• Stay out of the midday sun (from about 11 am to 3 pm). Take in the early morning or late evening sun instead. If you do go out in the sun, dress in loose full sleeved cotton clothes. White natural clothing is the best sun protection, and the only chemical-free sunblock!
• Replace alcohol with non-alcoholic drinks as much as possible. Though it may feel initially cooling to sip on a cocktail, the after effect of alcohol is very heating. Alcohol is like liquid fire in your system! Try mock-tails that use cooling agents like aloe vera juice, lemon, mint, cucumber, lavender, rose petals. ​

​​ My favourite summer beverage
Juice from 1/2 a small lemon
Pinch of rock salt and cumin
Jaggery or maple syrup to taste
Sparkling water and ice to make up one glass.