Surviving Heat Waves

Indian summers could be harsh and when a heatwave hits, it can really affect your health, energy levels and wellness. Nagpur often witness scorching heat, and it becomes all the more important to take preventative measures. This blog will help you to stay safe during heat waves with key things to do and avoid.

Do’s: How to Stay Safe During a Heat Wave

1.     Stay Hydrated:

One of the greatest risks during heat waves is dehydration. Eat plenty of water during the day, even when you don’t feel thirsty. Include hydrating foods like nariyal pani(coconut water), nimbu pani (lemon water), chaas (buttermilk), and fruits like watermelon and cucumber in your diet.

2.     Wear Loose and Light-Colored Clothing:

Choose clothes made of cotton or khadi to let your skin breathe. Dark colors absorb heat so pick light shades that bounce sunlight back and keep you cooler.

3.     Practice Exercise Indoors:

Staying active matters, but when it’s scorching hot outside, skip the outdoor workouts. Try cooling yoga asanas at home instead. If you want guided classes, you can learn yoga online or sign up for Online Yoga Near Nagpur to stay fit without battling the heat.

4.     Take Cool Showers:

A cold or lukewarm shower may help lower body temperature. You can also wipe your neck, forehead and wrists with a damp cloth to cool down during regular intervals.

5.     Eat Light and Satvik:

Big meals lead to higher temperatures in the body. Eat fresh fruits, yogurt, sprouts, and easy-to-digest homemade food like lentils with rice or khichdi. Stay away from greasy and hot foods, as they can boost your body heat.

6.     Stay Indoors During Peak Hours:

12 PM to 3 PM is when the sun is the strongest. Therefore, do try to remain indoors and venture out only if you need to. If you do venture out, take an umbrella with you, or put a cotton gamcha or dupatta over your head

7.     Use Fans and AC Wisely:

      If you don’t have an air conditioner, keep your home cool by closing curtains and using fans to move air around. You can put a bowl of ice in front of a fan for a cooling effect. Slightly wetting curtains can also lower room temperature.

Don’ts: What to Avoid During a Heat Wave

1.     Steer Clear Of Caffeinated and Sugary Beverages:

Drinks such as chai, coffee, and aerated soft drinks can contribute to dehydration. Instead, choose natural drinks like aam panna, sattu drink, or nariyal pani..

2.     Avoid Alcohol and Smoking:

Both alcohol and smoking dehydrate your body and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Limit or avoid them altogether during a heat wave.

3.     Don’t Ignore Weather Warnings:

Heed IMD (Indian Meteorological Department) warnings and advisories. During extreme heat waves, make sure to follow government-issued warnings like staying indoors and keeping emergency contact information handy.

4.     Avoid Cooking During Peak Heat Hours:

Gas cooking stoves and ovens heat your surroundings as well. Try to make food in the morning or in the evening once it is cooler  and eat things which don’t need to be cooked such as salads, fruit or curd rice when it’s hot. 

5.     Don’t Leave Pets or Kids in a Parked Car:

Cars left in the sun heat up fast. Don’t leave kids or pets in a car even for a minute as it can be very dangerous.

6.     Avoid Using Excessive Electronic Devices:

Electronics like computers, power adapters, and video game systems produce heat when used for a long time. You should avoid using them much and if you run these devices in a room, make sure air is flowing through the room.

7.     Don’t Ignore Symptoms of Heat-Related Illnesses:

If you or whoever is nearby is showing signs of heat exhaustion (dizziness, weakness, extreme sweating, or nausea), take immediate action. Find shade, hydrate and rest. Address physicians immediately if symptoms aggravate.

Final Thoughts

Heat waves can be life-threatening, but you can protect yourself from it with some steps. Hydration, mindful eating, indoor workouts and protective attire are essential. So, if you’re interested in workout without stepping out, choose online yoga in Nagpur or Learn Yoga Online which is a perfect home workout.

Stay cool, stay safe and let’s conquer summer together!

By Laura Tremewan

I write insightful content on Scoop Updates, helping readers stay informed and inspired.