Summer Blues

Summer is at its height and heat and humidity is causing quite a lot of strain in people’s lives. Weather is the topic of conversation for many as grievances over the rising temperature has become commonplace. People are staying indoors during the day as the temperature continues to soar, particularly in Terai region of Nepal. Many schools are closed for the summer vacation. Others are taking classes in the mornings. People are chugging chilled drinks as they sweat profusely. Ice-creams keep melting in the heat as eager sweet-toothed customers gingerly hold the ice-cream cones over the shop counters. 

Girls are especially worried about their skin flaring up in the humidity and are seemingly tired of their unyielding hair which tends to fall out copiously. Summer can be problematic for those who prefer rather chilly weather. However, steps can be taken to mitigate the effects of the heat and humidity. One of the most important steps towards self-care in summer is hydration. Health experts couldn’t be stressing it enough. 

During summer, people tend to sweat quite amply and it is certainly a natural and essential bodily function. The body sweats to cool down when the internal temperatures hikes up in a hot weather. As sweat evaporates from the skin, it takes the bodily heat along with it which helps regulate the body temperature. However, excessive sweating can lead to dehydration which is why it is so essential to stay hydrated in summer. 

And caffeinated drinks, alcoholic beverages and flavoured sodas aren’t the right solution despite the common misconception that they are hydrating. While they may be refreshing temporarily, the best option is plain water.  Likewise, skin and hair care routines too have to be adjusted in summer. People never leave the house without an umbrella in this season but they forget to apply sunscreen adequately. Especially in summer, one should apply generous amount of sunscreen according to the skin type, fifteen to twenty minutes before sun exposure and even indoors. 

Similarly, due to the excessive sebum and oil production in the skin, during the hotter weather, it is essential to use a clarifying cleanser, followed by moisturiser and sunscreen. When it comes to hair, it is vital to not let the greasiness build up in the roots of hair and scalp. Dandruffs are common this time around, so washing hair every other day with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner could be beneficial. 

Summer is when people wear lighter clothes which can make them self-conscious about their figures. Unsurprisingly, gyms are more packed in summer than winter. It is crucial to keep fit for health reasons so, it is advised not to skip those workouts. Alternatively, exercise such as yoga can be done from the comforts of home. One can also walk or jog around the neighbourhood blocks. Just ensure that are you are hydrating well and eating healthy with seasonal greens and fruits along with exercise.

As summer unfolds, people mop their sweaty face, switch on fans or air conditioners, brace outdoors with an umbrella and devour chilled beverages and desserts. And like clockwork it occurs every year, dividing people in their views towards summer. Thankfully, monsoon is set to a good start which is likely to bring respite from the heat.