Ah, summer—that golden time of mangoes, long drives, and pretending we can handle 45°C heat like pros. But let’s be honest: Indian summers can feel less like a season and more like a survival challenge.
And when the heat feels like it's personally attacking you? That’s when things can get serious.
So, how do you enjoy the sunshine without turning into a human jalebi?
Why Extreme Heat Is More Than Just “Uff, Garam Hai”
Heatwaves aren’t just about sweaty backs and melted lipstick. Prolonged high temperatures can seriously affect your health—especially if you're:
Elderly or a child
Pregnant
Have existing medical issues
Or… someone who refuses to drink water unless it’s tea ☕
Here’s what heat can do to your body:
Heat cramps: Painful muscle spasms—usually after exercise or dehydration.
Heat exhaustion: Headache, fatigue, dizziness. It’s your body yelling “enough!”
Heat stroke: The big one—can cause confusion, unconsciousness, even death. It’s a medical emergency.
Your Ultimate Summer Survival Guide
Ready to beat the heat like a boss? Here’s what actually works:
1. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
Water is your best friend. And no, chai doesn’t count. Keep sipping throughout the day—even before you feel thirsty.
Pro Tip: Add lemon, mint, or cucumber slices to make your water extra refreshing. It’s like a spa day in a bottle.
2. Dress Smart, Not Sweaty
Choose light-colored, loose-fitting cotton clothes. Dark colours attract heat like mosquitoes to a picnic.
Style Bonus: Rock a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Stay cool AND look cool.
3. Love the Shade
If you're outside, stay under trees, umbrellas, or anything that casts a shadow. If you're indoors, use curtains to block direct sunlight.
Hack: Set up a mini balcony tent using an old bedsheet—shade + style.
4. Avoid Outdoor Work Between 11AM to 4PM
This is the danger zone. Plan walks, errands, or workouts for early morning or after sunset.
Reminder: If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pets too!
5. Cold Showers > Cold Drinks
A quick cold shower or foot soak can lower your body temperature faster than chugging a soda.
Chilled Tip: Keep a wet towel in the fridge—instant relief for your face and neck.
What to Eat (and Avoid) in Extreme Heat
Your body already feels like it’s in a tandoor—don’t make it worse with greasy food.
Best Summer Foods:
Watermelon, cucumber, coconut water = hydration heroes
Curd, buttermilk = cooling for the gut
Leafy salads, fruit bowls, lemon juice
Skip These:
Deep-fried snacks (sorry samosas)
Spicy curries (unless you want to sweat even more)
Alcohol and caffeine—they dehydrate you faster than a Delhi auto disappears after you wave it down
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Call a doctor immediately if you or someone around you experiences:
No sweating despite heat
High fever, rapid pulse
Confusion or fainting
Muscle cramps that don’t go away
Heat stroke can sneak up fast—so always err on the side of caution.
Summer is amazing—but only if you respect the heat. Stay indoors during peak hours, load up on hydrating foods, and check on your elders, kids, and pets regularly.
Your umbrella, your water bottle, and your fridge—they’re your holy trinity this season. 🧊🌞🧴
