Summer Solstice Health Guide: Staying Cool and Enjoying Delicious Food

Summer Solstice Health Guide: Staying Cool and Enjoying Delicious FoodThe scorching sun and unbearable heat are upon us the dog days of summer have arrived. As the saying goes, "The sun burns like fire during the dog days, offering no respite from the heat," vividly describing the intense heat of this period

Summer Solstice Health Guide: Staying Cool and Enjoying Delicious Food

The scorching sun and unbearable heat are upon us the dog days of summer have arrived. As the saying goes, "The sun burns like fire during the dog days, offering no respite from the heat," vividly describing the intense heat of this period. During this time, Yang energy reaches its peak while Yin energy retreats, making people feel stuffy and weak. A slight oversight can lead to heatstroke. Therefore, maintaining good health during the dog days is crucial.

I. Preventing Heatstroke and Staying Cool Throughout the Summer

The dog days are the hottest time of year, when people are most susceptible to heatstroke. Preventing heatstroke is the top priority.

• Eat a Balanced Diet and Stay Hydrated:

Summer often brings a loss of appetite, but maintaining a balanced diet is essential. Focus on light and easily digestible foods like vegetables, fruits, mung bean soup, winter melon soup, etc. These foods replenish fluids and vitamins. Avoid overeating and spicy, stimulating foods.

• Exercise in Moderation to Strengthen Your Body:

With high temperatures, exercise should be done in the early morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler. Avoid intense exercise in the midday sun. Keep your workouts moderate, only exercising enough to feel a slight sweat.

• Rest Well and Ensure Adequate Sleep:

The scorching weather can easily lead to fatigue. It's vital to rest sufficiently and get enough sleep. A midday nap can effectively relieve fatigue and enhance work efficiency.

• Use Cold Compresses to Alleviate Heat:

Apply a cold towel to your forehead, neck, or other areas. Alternatively, use an ice pack to help cool down.

• Protect Yourself from the Sun and Avoid Sunburn:

Always apply sunscreen before going out, and wear a hat and sunglasses for added protection. Minimize outdoor activities during periods of intense sunlight.

II. Health Preservation During the Dog Days: Strengthening Your Body

The dog days are the ideal time to replenish Yang energy and a good opportunity to regulate the body's spleen and stomach. The following suggestions can help you achieve better health:

• Sunbathe on Your Back to Expel Cold:

The proverb "Sunbathe on your back during the dog days, stay healthy all year round" holds true. With ample sunshine during the dog days, sunbathing moderately can promote the rise of Yang energy in the body, expelling internal cold and boosting immunity. The best time to sunbathe is between 9-10 am or 3-4 pm, avoiding the midday sun. Limit each sunbathing session to about 20 minutes and avoid excessive exposure.

• Avoid Dampness and Stay Away from Humid Environments:

There is more rainfall during the dog days, leading to increased humidity. This can easily lead to dampness invading the body, causing various diseases. Therefore, try to avoid spending extended periods in humid environments, and ensure good ventilation and dryness indoors.

• Engage in Appropriate Exercise to Enhance Your Physical Strength:

Regular exercise can promote blood circulation, enhance physical strength, and improve immunity. During the dog days, exercise should be done in the early morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler, avoiding midday sun exposure. Exercise should be moderate, aiming for a slight sweat.

• Adjust Your Diet to Strengthen the Spleen and Stomach:

During the dog days, it's advisable to eat light, easily digestible foods like vegetables, fruits, mung bean soup, winter melon soup, etc. You can also include some spleen-tonifying and stomach-benefiting foods like yam, lotus root, barley, and Chinese yam.

III. Dog Days Festivals: Enjoying Delicious Food

Besides preventing heatstroke and staying cool, the dog days offer a chance to enjoy delicious food and happiness.

• Dumplings for the First Day, Noodles for the Second," a Traditional Custom:

There's a folk saying, "Dumplings for the First Day, Noodles for the Second," signifying using delicious food to reward oneself and bring happiness to the family during the scorching summer.

• Beef and Shrimp Dumplings: Fresh and Delicious:

Ingredients: Beef tenderloin, shrimp, onions, cabbage, chives, ginger, etc.

Preparation:

1. Pound and chop the beef into minced meat, devein and chop the shrimp into small pieces, mince the cabbage and onions, and set aside.

2. Fry the spices (onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon, peppercorns) in oil, then mix the fried oil with the minced beef, shrimp, and chopped vegetables. Add seasonings and mix thoroughly.

3. Use this filling to wrap delicious, juicy dumplings. Steam or boil them until cooked, and enjoy!

• Other Food Recommendations:

Besides dumplings, many other foods suit the dog days, like mung bean porridge, watermelon, jelly, and cold noodles.

IV. Health Preservation During the Dog Days: Precautions

• Avoid Sitting on Wooden Stools for Long Periods:

With more rainfall and increased dampness during the dog days, it's best to avoid sitting on wooden stools outdoors for extended periods. Wood readily absorbs water and evaporation is slow. Sitting for a long time on a wooden stool can allow dampness and cold to penetrate the body. This is especially important for those with joint problems.

• Avoid Lying Down for Long Periods:

Although the dog days are hot, it's not recommended to lie down and stay inactive for prolonged periods. Moderate exercise and movement can promote blood circulation and aid in heat dissipation. Maintaining good sleep routines is crucial too. Don't disrupt your sleep or wake-sleep patterns just because of the heat.

• Prevent Heatstroke:

Pay close attention to preventing heatstroke during the dog days. Avoid prolonged exposure to the scorching sun. Carry heatstroke prevention items when going out. If heatstroke symptoms occur, take immediate action.

Conclusion

The dog days are a long and challenging period. Staying cool, eating a balanced diet, exercising in moderation, and getting enough rest are essential for a safe and healthy journey through this hot season. Additionally, focus on dietary adjustments, enhance your physical fitness, and lay a strong foundation for the coming autumn and winter.

During this scorching season, why not prepare a loving meal for your family? It's a way to enjoy delicious food and strengthen bonds. Let's use simple ingredients, cook delicious dishes, and present a loving gift to our families. May everyone have a safe and healthy journey through this dog day period, enjoying the beauty of summer.