A100-degree day in a congested city is never a cool experience — I admit I tend to get irritated and overwhelmed as I navigate my way through the sticky, sun-baked streets. If you’re anything like me, serenity is a distant afterthought on a hot summer day. For the sake of your sanity and health, follow these three tips to keep your cool on a sizzling day.
Prepare for the heat
First things first: Stay mellow in the high temps by mindfully preparing for your commute. Before you leave the house, make sure you’ve set yourself up to win. Practice simple acts of self-care: Pack an extra shirt in case you get sweaty, or prepare a playlist of tunes that keep you positive even if you’re fanning yourself with your Kindle. And don’t forget to slather on sunscreen. Dr. Pryia Batra from Vanguard Dermatology suggests wearing SPF 50 sunblock even when you’re walking to work. Paying extra attention to your personal well-being is a huge stress reliever when heat is an obstacle.
Meditate on your commute
This will greatly serve you when you’re stuck on a hot bus, subway or train. Press play on some ambient music and breathe deeply in your nose and out your mouth. Need help getting into the zone? Visit www.gabbyb.tv/ landing-page for my free guided meditations. Connecting to your breath through meditation will help you release all negativity before you get to the office. Simply shut your eyes and breathe deeply, and your commute will be much cooler.
Drink up
Staying hydrated will help you maintain your energy and keep you cool throughout the day. My dear friend and doctor, Frank Lipman, says, “Drink half your body weight in ounces of water each day. You want to drink fluids before you are thirsty, because if you wait until you’re thirsty you are already dehydrated. And remember, it has to be water — iced coffee and margaritas don’t count!” Even though it might sound obvious, don’t disregard this crucial step.
The heat doesn’t have to get you down this summer! Take care of yourself with a little mindfulness and you’ll avoid unnecessary meltdowns.
— Gabrielle Bernstein is the author of “Spirit Junkie.”
Metro does not endorse the opinions of the author, or any opinions expressed on its pages.
