If you’ve been staying in Delhi for a while, you’ve probably gotten used to the extreme climate of the capital city of India. But with the temperatures soaring as high as 48 degrees this year, it’s almost impossible to step out of the house. Getting to work or even going out for a drink feels like a task and several cases of heat stroke have been reported in the hospitals. The poor air quality raises a red flag, too. So dear Delhi-ites, here are some tips and tricks to help you beat the summer heat and make it slightly more bearable.
1. Avoid Stepping Out During The Peak Hours
UVB rays are strongest between 10am to 3pm. During the peak summer months, avoid going out during these hours. Not only is it hot but exposure to sun rays can cause sunburn, premature skin ageing and skin cancer. Get to the office before 10am or make your shopping plans after 4pm when the sun’s rays aren’t as harsh.
2. Consider Travelling By Metro Or Car – ONLY
If you can afford it, use the metro or a shared cab for travel. Auto and rickshaws expose you to the heat and getting out of an auto and stepping into your freezing office is a recipe for disaster. Make use of the metro, carpool and work from home options if possible.
3. Make Water Your New Best Friend
If you ain’t drinking enough water, you ain’t gonna be fine, girl! Nausea, fatigue, dizziness and dehydration are all common in the scorching heat. Not only should you be drinking at least 7 – 8 glasses of water in a day but you should also carry a bottle with you at all times. You could always add some energising components such as Glucon-D, Rooh Afza or fruits like strawberries and cucumbers to make it flavourful. Coconut water, lemonade and lassi are also great alternatives to stay hydrated in this extreme climate.
4. Ditch Fried Food With Fresh Fruits
I know it’s hard to resist deep-fried pakoras and street food but spicy and fried food will only generate more heat in your body. Stick to fruits which have a higher water consistency such as mangoes, watermelons, musk melons, lychees, plums or bananas. You can even turn it into a fruit salad with a pinch of chaat masala and add sprouts for an extra crunch.
5. Don’t Forget To Apply Sunscreen
Apart from your physical health, your skin’s health also has a tendency to fall prey to the harsh sun rays. Your skin, being the most sensitive part of your body, will get affected much sooner than you realise. Hence, your skin needs a protective shield against the harmful UV exposure that can cause sunburn, tanning, hyperpigmentation and other skin diseases. Sunny or not, apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you step out and reapply every 4 hours. This should become a habit, ladies.
6. Fashion Accessories To Add To Your Wardrobe
Good quality sunglasses, scarves and caps or hats should be a part of your summer-ready wardrobe. Not only will these accessories shield you from the harmful sun rays, but also add a stylish touch to your #OOTD!
7. Opt For Something Light, Colorful & Flowy
Ditch those figure-hugging tops and leggings and let your body breathe in loose, flowy silhouettes and light, breathable fabrics .Take out your cotton comfies like colourful maxi dresses, kaftans, kurtis and skirts in order to survive in the summer heat. Silk and satin are a big no-no as they do not absorb sweat, thereby making you feel uncomfortable and sticky.
8. Cool Off With Chuskis & Bantas Instead Of Coffee
I know, I know. We all love drinking chocolate flavoured iced lattes on a hot day but believe it or not, caffeine leaves us dehydrated. Instead of opting for coffee or tea, bring back your childhood memories by indulging in a kaala-khatta chuski or my personal favourite, Banta soda to beat the heat. And of course, who can forget ice-creams and frozen yoghurts?
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