Peak season has peaked! The tourists, the traffic, the bars, the clubs and those Essential Ibiza summer vibes… AND the heat! From a holistic perspective, this time of year is when the fire element dominates. Holistically speaking, at our best we are in balance – embodying passion, warmth and satisfaction from the season. At worst, this time of year is prime burn-out time – resulting in imbalances physically (rashes, sweating, acne, excessive sweating, digestive disorders and heatstroke), mentally (intensity) and emotionally (anger). Despite the love for the summer sun and all that it brings, here are some Essential Ibiza heat-reducing tips based on Ayurvedic principles to stay healthy and happy, and to be cool – in more ways than one!
Moonbathing – we sunbathe to get warm so it is only logical to moonbathe to get cool. Moonbathing cools and cleanses. And for optimum cooling effects, take a swim under the light of the moon. And this August, you have double the opportunity for full moon moonbathing! ‘Cooling ‘drinks can help enormously; think ‘tropical’. Drink coconut water for optimum hydration and cool (not iced water) with mint and/or lime – healthy mojito style or add cucumber slices to water for extra freshness. Fruit like dates, berries, cherries, pears, melons and coconut are all cooling on the system as well as raw food and especially salads. Avoid excessive caffeine, alcohol and refined sugar however tempting it may be to boost your energy, it will actually irritate the system and cause more heat. Fragrances have the ability to cool too: rose, lavender, jasmine, hibiscus, lotus and sandalwood are all cooling and refresh as both essential oils and as teas and naturally, as flowers.
Sunscreen is essential in August temperatures and these days we have more natural options; Neem oil has a natural SPF 35. Additionally, coconut oil is also a natural sunscreen. It cools, nourishes and detoxifies the skin. Gently massaging your skin can calm the nervous system, boost vitality and the immune system, as well as cool. Coconut oil can also help with insomnia and the fragrance automatically conjures up holiday paradise vibe. Eyes hold extra heat in high temperatures. Be sure to remember your sunglasses (even if you go out at night – this is Ibiza after all). Splashing your eyes with rosewater – leaving rose petals to float in a bowl overnight and splashed on the face and eyes each morning – can brighten your eyes and face irrespective of how much sleep you may (or may not) have had.
Naturally, regular exercise is important, but can be toned down to suit temperatures – sweat-glowing rather than pouring with sweat will be enough to release excess ‘fire and heat’ and toxins from the digestive system. Yoga is ideal for hot temperatures as the breath work regulates body temperature so you can continue to feel the benefits, even when you are no longer on your mat. It goes without saying, summer fashion is essential for August in Ibiza… but threads can still be cool whilst they keep you cool. Natural material: linen, cotton and silk in light blues, greens and whites help mitigate the heat. And if your spirit needs cooling – meditate. Try the bija mantra of water, which cools fire – chant ‘vam’ and experience the cool vibrations from within.
Wishing you a cool August and Essential Health and Happiness always.
Emma PranaSol
www.pranasol.com
info@pranasol.com