Embrace the Zen Within: Top 20 Ways to Keep Cool Naturally During a Heat Wave
My husband and I live on the southeastern side of the Mexican peninsula of Baja. Like much of the rest of the world, we are experiencing an unusual heat wave this time of year. What a perfect time to write an article about cooling off, metaphysically speaking.
As the summer sun blazes upon us, we seek solace and comfort during a heat wave. Fear not. Here are some ancient wisdom and modern insights to help naturally keep cool during these scorching times. Embrace the elements and align with nature's bountiful gifts, guiding towards tranquility and balance.
Let's look at these top 20 ways...
Heatwave
Wisdom of Ayurveda
Turn to the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda to balance the body's natural energies.
Ayurveda teaches us that our bodies are made up of three doshas - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha - and maintaining their balance is vital to well-being. Each dosha embodies specific elemental qualities and regulates various physiological and psychological functions in the body-mind complex.
Vata, constituted by air and space elements, governs movement, creativity, and communication.
Pitta manages metabolism, digestion, and intellect and is aligned with fire and water elements,
Kapha, linked to Earth and water elements, controls stability, immunity, and emotional balance.
The interplay and balance of these doshas determine our constitution, or Prakriti, which profoundly influences our health. When in harmony, they promote vitality and equilibrium. However, imbalances in these doshas, termed Vikriti, can lead to ailments and disturbances. Ayurvedic practices, such as appropriate diet, lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, and therapies, may help to restore doshic equilibrium and enhance one's well-being.
During the scorching days of summer, the fiery Pitta dosha can become aggravated, leading to discomfort and heat-related issues. Incorporating cooling foods into the diet, like cucumber, watermelon, and mint, can be like a soothing salve for the soul. These nourishing gifts from Mother Nature can help quiet the fiery energy within, allowing us to flow harmoniously with the universe. (Reference: Chopra, Deepak. "Ayurveda: A Brief Introduction and Guide.")
Embracing the cool of the night
Bask in Lunar Love
Ah, the moon, a celestial wonder that has mesmerized humanity for millennia. Connect with the moon's calming energy. Spend time outdoors during moonlit nights, and let the serene lunar vibrations cool the spirit. Meditate under the moon's gentle gaze for inner peace and relief from the heat.
The moon's calming energy may cool our spirits and bring a sense of peace amidst the heat. Meditating under its gentle gaze is like bathing in a celestial river of tranquility, washing away the day's intensity and rekindling the inner glow of our being..
Take time for yourself
Meditate by the Water
Seek refuge near natural bodies of water. Whether it's a serene lake, a babbling brook, or the mighty ocean, meditating by water can have a profound cooling effect on your soul. Let the water's essence wash away the heat's intensity.
There's something magical about meditating near water. Have you ever sought refuge in these watery domains during heat waves? Sit by the water's edge, its soothing essence embraces lovingly, dissipating the heat's burdens. The water's flow becomes a reflection of one's breath, reminding, like water, life moves in continuous cycles.
Essential oils
Essential Oils Alchemy
Essential oils, veiled in the essence of nature's wisdom, may provide relief from heat-related discomfort. Through their inherent prakriti or elemental composition, they carry cooling attributes, which can pacify excess Pitta dosha, responsible for heat-related imbalances.
When these aromatic essences are applied or inhaled, they interact with the senses, the mind, and the physical body. Their subtle energies permeate the channels, promoting a sense of harmony and balance and disentangling the knots of excessive heat.
Try the application of Peppermint or Eucalyptus to pulse points; one may feel a cooling sensation. Breathing in their refreshing aromas may provide an instant release of tension. These natural elixirs connect us to the very soul of plants, and their wisdom imparts a sense of harmony within. (Reference: Sadashiva Tirtha, "The Ayurveda Encyclopedia: Natural Secrets to Healing, Prevention & Longevity.")
Also, with their distinct therapeutic properties, essential oils can have a powerful impact on the body's subtle energy centers or chakras, unblocking stagnant energies and fostering a holistic sense of cooling and well-being.
Remember to breathe
Yoga's Breath of Fresh Air
Practice cooling pranayama techniques like "Sheetali" or "Sheetkari" to lower your body temperature. These breathing exercises offer a calm breeze amidst the heat's fiery dance. (Reference: "The Hatha Yoga Pradipika.")
Indeed, in the vast tapestry of pranayama techniques, several profound practices are bestowed to harmonize and alleviate the effects of heat during scorching waves. Among them, notable methods include "Sitali," "Sitkari," and "Sadanta."
Sometimes easier said than done, "Sitali" pranayama entails inhaling through a rolled tongue, akin to a straw, drawing air's cooling essence to soothe the body's internal fire. Similarly, "Sitkari" involves drawing air through the gaps of the teeth, invoking a refreshing and calming sensation.
"Sadanta," often known as the hissing breath, entails gentle and controlled exhalations through the mouth. When practiced mindfully, this technique helps to release excess heat and dissipate internal tensions.
However, the key to effective pranayama practice lies not merely in the techniques themselves but in one's focused awareness, intention, and alignment with the subtle energies. By nurturing this inner connection, one can harness the full potential of pranayama to gracefully navigate the challenges posed by heat waves and restore inner equilibrium.
Keep drinking that water!
Hydration is Sacred
Stay hydrated! Water is life! It becomes your divine elixir during heat waves. Infuse it with sacred herbs like rose petals or lemongrass for added nourishment and refreshing flavor.
Water, the elixir of life, is truly sacred during heatwaves. Staying hydrated is essential for our physical and spiritual well-being. Infusing our water with sacred herbs like rose petals or lemongrass elevates it to a higher level of nourishment. As we sip on this divine elixir, we imbue our bodies with the essence of nature's beauty, and every drop becomes a sacred communion with the elements. Reference: World Health Organization, "Water, Sanitation, Hygiene, and Health.")
Crystals provide energy
Crystals of Serenity
Crystals, the jewels of the Earth, hold a mystical power that resonates with our souls. Harness the energy of cooling crystals like blue lace agate, moonstone, and aquamarine. Carrying them with me or placing them in my living spaces invokes their soothing aura, a gentle reminder that tranquility lies within our grasp. (Reference: Judy Hall, "The Crystal Bible.")
Giving thanks
Sunset Rituals
As the sun descends, embrace the evening's arrival with gratitude. Create a sunset ritual, expressing appreciation for the day's gifts and welcoming the cooler embrace of twilight.
The setting sun paints the sky with vibrant hues, creating a sunset ritual to honor the gifts of the day. In this sacred moment, express appreciation for all that life has offered and welcome the cooler embrace of twilight. Cayman Villas D | Cherry Grove Luxury Beach House | Shared Pool | Elliott Beach Rentals. https://www.northmyrtlebeachtravel.com/vacation-houses/cayman-villas-d
The transition from day to night becomes a cosmic dance. Be a witness to its beauty.
A cool drink of shabat
Divine Herbal Coolants
Seek refuge in herbal concoctions that cool the body from within. Prepare a refreshing “sharbat” (herbal drink) using herbs like coriander, fennel, and rose. These natural coolants can help you beat the heat. (Reference: Dr. Vasant Lad, “The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies.”)
Here are some additional instructions to help you stay cool naturally during the heat wave. Embrace these practices with an open heart, and let the wisdom of the universe guide you toward tranquility and balance.
In the sacred texts of Ayurveda, the cooling properties of certain herbs have been celebrated for centuries. In India, during scorching summers, families often prepare refreshing “sharbats,” a drink originating in the Middle East, using spices like coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and rose petals. These herbal concoctions have been cherished for their cooling effects and ability to balance the body’s energies or doshas.
Ice to place in a bowl in front of a fan - “swamp cooler”
Fan the Elements
Harness the power of air circulation. Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan and let it create a refreshing breeze throughout your space. You can even hang a damp cloth in front of a window to cool the air entering your home.
In many cultures, fans have been used for centuries to cool the body and disperse stagnant energy. By incorporating a bowl of ice in front of a fan, we amplify its cooling effect, allowing it to mimic the rejuvenating powers of the wind.
Run hand under cool water
Mindful Cooling Rituals
Engage in mindful cooling rituals, such as washing your face and wrists with cool water before bedtime or during the day. Allow these simple actions to cleanse not just your body but also your spirit.
When embracing mindfulness, even the simplest actions take on profound meaning. Washing of the face and wrists with cool water becomes a practice that purifies not just the physical body but also calms the mind.
Cool bath with flower petals
Chill with Cooling Baths
Create a sacred space in your home by infusing your bathwater with cooling agents like rose petals, lavender, or chamomile. Immerse yourself in this rejuvenating bath and feel the heat dissolve away.
Throughout history, people from different cultures have recognized the healing power of water. From the ancient Greeks to the Japanese, bath rituals have been a part of daily life. By infusing our baths with soothing herbs like lavender or chamomile, we align ourselves with the healing energy of water and nature.
Shady forest area
Shades of Serenity
Seek shade during the sun's peak hours. Nature's umbrellas offer respite from the fiery rays, whether a tree's canopy or a beach umbrella. Meditate or read a book under these natural shelters.
Seekers of peace have always sought refuge in the shade of trees or the embrace of a cool breeze. Nature's gift of shade offers us a natural respite from the intensity of the sun's rays, inviting us to connect with the elements and find stillness within.
Yummy homemade popsicles
Frozen Delights:
Embrace the joy of frozen treats! Create your own healthy and cooling popsicles using fresh fruit juices or herbal teas. These delightful indulgences will keep you refreshed and satisfied.
Frozen treats have been savored by ancient civilizations, offering a delightful escape from the heat. Today, we can recreate these pleasures in a healthy and conscious way, using fresh, organic ingredients to create delicious popsicles that nourish both body and soul.
Beach gathering by the sea
Community Cool-Off
Come together with your community during the heat wave. Organize cooling gatherings in shaded parks or gardens, where everyone can share refreshing drinks, laughter, and good company.
Coming together with our communities during challenging times is a timeless tradition. Whether a simple gathering in the park or a full-fledged celebration, collective support, and laughter can serve as a balm for our souls during the heat wave.
Find a cool place in the home
Natural Cooling Zones
Discover your home's natural cooling zones. Identify the spots that remain cooler during the day, such as basements or shaded corners. These spaces can offer relief and respite when the sun's intensity peaks.
Our ancestors discovered the cool spots in their homes and sanctuaries through intuitive observation. These sacred areas can offer refuge during the hottest hours, reminding us to attune ourselves to the subtle energies of our living spaces.
Fluidity in movement - Qigong
Fluidity in Movement
Engage in gentle, flowing movements like tai chi or Qigong. These mindful exercises connect you to the natural rhythms of the universe and help you stay cool amidst the summer's heat. (Reference: Kenneth S. Cohen, "The Way of Qigong: The Art and Science of Chinese Energy Healing.")
Ancient practices like Tai Chi and Qigong are more than just exercises; they can be gateways to connecting with the vital life force, or "Qi," that flows within and around us. By engaging in these flowing movements, we harmonize with the rhythms of the universe and find solace in the midst of chaos.
Life-giving energy of the sun
Gratitude for the Sun
As we seek relief from the heat, let us remember to express gratitude for the sun's life-giving energy. Offer a moment of thanks for the sun's presence and its vital role in sustaining life on our beautiful planet.
May these practices and their references empower you to stay cool naturally and find harmony within the heart of the heat wave. As you trust in the wisdom of the elements, remember that you are one with the universe, which flows through you in perfect harmony.
Rev. Lisa C. Coleman