Summer Heat Calls for Change

Making an attitude shift

Photos by the author

The periodic cooing of a dove hangs in the soft air of this midsummer morning. It’s still early and the relentless heat has not yet penetrated into our backyard. Here, in the shade, the light breeze rustles through and the soundtrack of summer birds surrounds me. I enjoy this moment since, soon enough, I’ll be chased inside by the high humidity and the overpowering sun.

When the temperature rises, I at first forget the steps I need to take. The heat tends to go to my head and makes me simmer. I complain to myself and even rant about the “problem”. I imagine it’s happening only to me. And it feels like I should have been personally informed about this impending weather.

And, then, all of a sudden, it hits me. I’m just compounding the heat. I take a step back. I slow down and look around. I’m the one who needs to change. It’s time to adjust my habits and routines. I remind myself to drink more fluids and eat lighter fare. I take the time to assess how my life is affected and how I can lighten my load. I relearn a new kind of living and remember what I can do to make a difference in this heat. It takes work but the results are rewarding.

Growing up in a rainy and temperate climate, I’m not used to this weather. As I speak about it with customers and friends, I discover I’m not alone. In the big picture, we are all dealing with this humid and hot pattern. So I feel better knowing we’re in it together, sweaty and sticky. As I work through the heat, I start to see a change. Since I’ve owned up to my feelings, I can move forward.

Today, I’m trying to make the most of the situation. A walk by the water at OxBow Park brings respite. And I find myself gradually cooling down, finding a way forward. I just need to remember that it’s up to me to make the change.

Sometimes, as midsummer rolls around, I imagine all the things I need to get done before these longer days of daylight are gone. But maybe the best I can do is slow down, lighten up, soak it in. There will be cooler days ahead.

Tips to manage the heat:

Slow down. Your energy isn’t the same in the heat. Your to-do list can wait.

Drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself hydrated. I love to make a big batch of meadow tea ( mint and lemon).

Cool off. At the bakery, on hot days, we filled a kiddie pool with water and, regularly, put our feet in it.

Change your eating habits. Eat fresh veggies and fruits. Plan meals that you don’t have to cook in the kitchen. Bread, cheese and olives does the trick for me. Or ice cream.

Do your outside work or exercise in the early morning or late evening.

And don’t forget to watch the fireflies!

P.S. **In May, I sent out a little inspirational suggestion for each day based on my own living to those subscribers who wanted it. In July, I will be sending out the second one, Drop by in July. I’m excited that numerous of you have already signed up for it! If you’d like to receive this daily prompt, let me know in the comments or by email. I hope you’ll join me!**