“Summer Breeze makes me feel fine..” is a song that plays in my mind this time of year. However rarely do we actually encounter a breeze living in Atlanta where the heat steadily rises through the month of August.

Whatever your constitution is primarily, you are bound to encounter the summer ‘heat’ and fire which is called ‘Pitta’ in Ayurvedic language. So to create that breeze internally and externally for yourself here are a few things to consider in your daily life to prevent impairing digestion and staying cool.

* use sandalwood oil, khus, and jasmine – one or two drops on the feet or behind the ears

*wear gemstones of jade, amythyst and mostly ‘silver” jewelry

*avoid alcohol ( sorry, it’s “heating”),  BUT enjoy a cool beer occasionally!

*avoid spicy chilis, hot peppers and citrus  and emphasize cooling foods such as cucumbers, coriander ( cilantro- see recipe below)- along with fruits such as watermelon with lime juice and sweet fruits .

*sit under the cool rays of the moon or go for a romantic stroll with a friend or someone you love and allow these cooling rays to balance your emotions as they may get irritable during Pitta season.

Recipe for Cilantro Chutney

Bunch of cilantro( coriander) leaves, blend with 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1/4 cup water, 1/4 cup coconut then add and blend two tablespoons chopped ginger,  one tsp honey, salt and pepper

Use with rice, as a spread or topping for chicken or just about anything.

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Thanks and have a safe summer!