I am not going to tell you that summer means longer days, more heat and shorter nights.

I am also not going to repeat that it also means more sun exposure as we enjoy picnics, outdoor gatherings, bike rides, pool time, kayaking, and other activities and less rest time.

I am also not going to suggest something you already know, like hydrate and take naps!

But let me tell you this, Our first line of defense is our skin!

A big part of our immune system, the skin cannot function optimally when the body’s fluid level is not optimum. Dry, scratchy, rough, dehydrated skin cannot protect us from external invasions of microbes, heat, and internal functions of flushing out toxins. A rest-deprived body and mind can act impulsively as it is prone to irritation without rest, so…nap!

If you experience a nagging sunstroke kind of headache, try this herbal clay mask on the forehead:

1. Add 1 tablespoon of Yogis Glow powder to 1 tablespoon cucumber juice (just grate and squeeze).
2. Mix into a paste and apply a thick layer to the entire forehead from temple to temple.
3. Cover the paste with a thin, moist, muslin cloth or gauze. Lie down, let it dry, and then simply wash away the dry powder along with the nagging headache.

This is one of the Ayurvedic practices to keep the head cool and deal with heat exhaustion headaches. It pacifies pitta and promotes rest, cooling, and calmness. Yogis glow is a perfect mix of cooling and calming herbs, and flowers and fruits like aloe vera, sandalwood, rose, manjistha, neem, lemongrass, and cucumber. Just try it!

Don’t have Yogis Glow? Get it here!

Until your Yogis Glow arrives on your doorstep, drink takra every hot afternoon. What is it? Takra is a diluted herbal yogurt drink of water, black pepper, himlayan pink salt, cumin seed, and fresh mint. Read Recipe No. 73 for exact details.

Not a fan of yogurt? Try Recipe No. 71 for a similar cooling effect using cow’s milk as the base.

Dairy isn’t your groove? No problem, get your prana fix with the herbal coconut water recipe. Read Recipe No. 56 or cook up this cooling hair oil.

Where can you find these summer-soothing recipes and many more? SOMA: 100 Heritage Recipes for Self-Care. Find time-tested Ayurvedic remedies that have been passed down from one generation to the next along with anecdotes and suggestions for ways to keep your constitution in tip-top shape.

With the three recipes above, make your summer shine and be cool about it.