From here on, the temperature will keep on rising till it reaches the sizzling stage. So, when things heat up outside, are you prepared to stay in balance this summer?

According to Ayurveda, the ancient science of natural health, when things are heating up outside, the key to balance is to find ways to cool down inside – physically, mentally and emotionally.

Here are few easy tips to maintain optimum balance of mind and body in summer:

Cooling baths

A cooling bath is the best way to start a ‘cool’ day. This is the first thing that you do in the morning. Bathe with cold water. With an invigorating, refreshing and cooling bath, you are ready to face the sweltering heat of summer with a smile.

Cooling beverages

Fresh fruit juices blended and stored at room temperature, are recommended. Grape juice, water melon shakes, lassi are refreshing and healthy choices in summer. You should also drink a lot of cool pure water to replenish body moisture lost to heat during summer.

Note: cold bottled juice or carbonated beverage will impair your digestion and will also harm your immunity system.

Cooling diet

A cooling Ayurvedic diet in summer includes a lot of fruits and vegetables that are sweet, juicy, bitter and astringent in nature. Fruits: melons, pears, cherries, mangoes and grapes are beneficial. Vegetables: broccoli, zucchini, cucumbers and asparagus have cooling effects.

Note: Avoid spicy and sour foods, also foods with heating properties such as tomatoes, hot peppers, radishes, onions, garlic and spinach.

Cooling exercises

Yoga and meditation, swimming, morning walks are healthy and wonderful exercises for summer. Sitali Pranayam is recommended for instilling coolness, brightness and peacefulness in the body and mind.

Cooling lifestyle

Stress and overwork aggravates the symptoms and overheating effects of summer. Working on deadline-oriented activities, lack of time for oneself, work pressure, and long commutes are more stressful during the heat of summer. Enjoy fun and leisurely activities in weekends and take some time to enjoy and appreciate life. Devote some time to meditation to relax your mind and keep stress at bay.

Protect yourself from the sun

Lastly, you should protect yourself from the sun and refrain from outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. To protect yourself from sunburns use a good natural sunscreen. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the harsh rays of the sun.