The Kerala summer can feel like a giant, fiery lung has descended upon the state. The once vibrant green landscape seems to wilt under the relentless sun, and the normally bustling streets become eerily quiet. But fear not! Here are some ways to outsmart the heat and keep yourself, your family, especially the little ones and the elders, cool and comfortable:
Seek Sanctuary in the Hills: Imagine a cool escape. Lush, emerald mountains pierce the sky, offering a refuge from the scorching plains. Munnar, Wayanad, and Idukki beckon with their refreshing embrace. Picture misty mornings spent sipping steaming cups of chai, watching the valleys awaken. The afternoons are a delightful change, the sun a gentle caress rather than a fiery assault.
Backwater Bliss: The Kerala backwaters transform into your own personal cooling system during the summer. Imagine gently gliding on a houseboat, the palm trees swaying languidly in the breeze. The cool water laps against the hull, a constant invitation to dip your toes in. Let the gentle current carry your worries away, replaced by the serenity of the emerald backwaters.
Transform Your Home into a Cool Oasis: Cotton becomes your new best friend. Picture yourself and your family swathed in loose, light-colored cotton clothes, as comfortable as a second skin. Every breath feels like a cool caress. Draw the curtains during the day, picturing them as giant shields deflecting the sun’s harsh rays. Let the ceiling fans twirl merrily, their gentle breeze a constant comfort. If you’re lucky enough to have an air conditioner, let it transform your living space into a refreshing haven. And don’t forget the magic of cool showers! Imagine the sizzling heat melting away with every drop of water.
Food as a Weapon Against the Heat: Picture yourself biting into a juicy watermelon, its coolness exploding in your mouth, quenching your thirst and leaving you feeling invigorated. Imagine refreshing cucumber raita cooling your palate, or a tall glass of chilled buttermilk (lassi) soothing your insides. Fresh salads become your allies, bursting with vitamins and hydration. Spicy curries take a backseat for a while, replaced by milder dishes that won’t stoke your internal fire.
Extra TLC for the Vulnerable: Keep a watchful eye on the little ones. Imagine their rosy cheeks, a constant reminder to keep them hydrated. Dress them in light, airy clothes and limit their playtime during the sun’s peak hours. For the elders, check in on them frequently. Ensure they have cool water readily available, and encourage them to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day.