Sip Smart, Stay Cool: Ayurvedic Hacks for a Refreshing Desi Summer

When modern science is struggling to find answers to simple questions like how much water we should drink in the summer, our ancestors thought about the best ways to drink water..

Digital Desk: Summer is coming, and keeping your body hydrated is going to be a challenge. But don't worry, we Indians always have the advantage of looking back to our ancestors, as we have a rich tradition of passing down knowledge. When modern science is struggling to find answers to simple questions like how much water we should drink in the summer, our ancestors thought about the best ways to drink water. Water is a subject that has been discussed in minute detail in our ancient gems, like Ayurveda. 

Why should we drink water?

As the summer temperatures rise, you may be contemplating the optimal beverage to keep yourself adequately hydrated. Water serves as an essential choice, facilitating hydration without the inclusion of superfluous calories or additives. But why is it imperative to consume water?

Water holds paramount significance in maintaining our overall health. It assumes a pivotal role in numerous physiological functions within our body, such as transporting nutrients to cells, eliminating waste products, safeguarding joints and organs, and regulating body temperature.

So let's dive into our past and bring the Ayurveda gems with a modern touch of jargon: 

Seated Hydration: Optimal Posture for Drinking Water

It is advisable to sit down while drinking water to maintain fluid balance in the body. This practice helps prevent the accumulation of fluid in joints, reducing the risk of arthritis. Sitting promotes muscle and nervous system relaxation, facilitating better digestion and kidney filtration.

Sip Strategically: Avoiding Large Water Consumption

Steer clear of gulping down large amounts of water in one go. Instead, opt for smaller sips throughout the day. This aligns with Ayurvedic principles considering individual doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha). Consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized guidance based on your Prakriti is recommended.

Temperature Matters: Room Temperature or Slightly Warm Water

Prefer water at room temperature or slightly warm over ice-chilled water. Cold water can disrupt digestion and reduce blood supply to organs, potentially causing constipation. Tepid water supports proper digestion, metabolism, and weight loss, and relieves bloating and pain.

Thirst as a Guide: Drink Only When Thirsty

Listen to your body's signals, and drink water only when you feel thirsty. Ayurveda emphasizes recognizing individual thirst cues, as excessive water intake cannot be universally recommended. Pay attention to indicators like urine colour and dry lips to avoid overhydration.

Body's Thirst Indicators: Recognizing Signs of Dehydration

Be mindful of indicators such as urine colour, where dark yellow suggests dehydration, while clear and straw-coloured urine indicates proper hydration. Dry and chapped lips are additional signs of dehydration that should not be overlooked.

Morning Hydration Ritual: Ushapan

Cultivate the habit of drinking water first thing in the morning, known as Ushapan in Ayurveda. This practice aids in flushing toxins from the body and cleansing the intestines, contributing to overall health.

Ayurvedic Vessels: Copper and Silver Elixirs

Consider drinking water stored in copper and silver vessels to balance doshas in the body. Copper vessels have antioxidants and antibacterial properties, boosting the immune system, while silver vessels remove free radicals, providing a cooling effect on the intestines and aiding digestion.

Pitta Season Awareness: Hydration during the Hottest Hours

Acknowledge the significance of the Pitta Season in summer, especially during Pitta Kaal (afternoon), the hottest part of the day. Ayurveda recommends increased water intake during this period to maintain body temperature.

Cool Infusions: Pitta-Pacifying Ingredients in Water

Incorporate Pitta-pacifying ingredients into the water during the summer. Add lemon, mint, kokum, fennel seeds, and khaskhas to help regulate body heat and enhance the refreshing quality of water.

"Caution: While our health tips aim to raise awareness, they are not exhaustive guides. It is important to consult with your doctor or Ayurveda experts for a comprehensive understanding of your health needs."