It’s HOT AF in Texas right now, and it’s only getting hotter. When we were kids, we’d have an ice pop to cool down, but that just doesn’t cut it these days, does it? It’s no secret that I’m very much into wellness trends, so my team and I did some research into the best ways to cool your body down that have extra benefits. I know it’s hot girl summer, but cool girl summer just has a better ring to it in my opinion.
1. Cold Plunge
I’ve been looking into adding a cold plunge to our new home (it’s especially beneficial if you workout hard), and I came across The Plunge, which is not only aesthetically pleasing but also great for boosting your immune system and blood circulation, and reducing inflammation and soreness. If you don’t have access to an actual cold plunge, an ice bath (around 39 degrees F) will do the trick!
2. Ice Roll
Ice rolling cools you down topically but also has amazing benefits for your skin. If you’re like me and get puffy from the heat, ice rolling is a great option. It promotes lymphatic drainage and encourages and stimulates blood circulation to the face. Circulation is KEY for puffiness!
3. Hydrate
We all knew this one was coming. But, don’t reach for the ice water too quickly. Instead, opt for room temperature water to hydrate, which is easier on your digestion system. Also, the more water you drink, the more optimal your body is able to self-regulate its temperature. It’s like gas to a car! If you’ve just completed a tough workout, try hydrating with coconut water for extra electrolytes.
4. Wear Your SPF Religiously
More often than not, hot skin stems from injury—like a sunburn. In order to avoid burning, make sure you don’t skip SPF in your routine (hint: it’s the final step before makeup, so it should be easy to remember). I really love Summer Fridays new Shade Drops.
5. Sitali Breath Technique
There is an ancient breathing technique in Kundalini yoga that is actually called “cooling breath.” Here’s how to do it.
- On the ground, sit in a comfortable, cross-legged seated position.
- Stick out your tongue and roll the outer edges together (think hot dog bun). Alternatively, pucker or purse your lips.
- Slowly inhale through your mouth (sipping the air through your tongue or your lips if they are pursed), then exhale out through your nose.
- Repeat this for five rounds.
Fun fact: In Kundalini, it is recommended to do 26 rounds of this breath in the morning and another 26 in the evening.
