How to stay cool in the "dog days" of summer!

Have you ever wondered why they are called the “dog days" of summer? Well, I have! Apparently the phrase 'Dog Days' conjures up the hottest, most sultry days of summer, 40 days beginning July 3 and ending August 11, coinciding with the rising of the Dog Star, Sirius. Since its rising also coincided with a time of extreme heat, the connection with hot weather was made for all time.-- Fascinating, I know :)

So, what are some of the best ways to stay cool? A few posts back I mentioned that the body naturally craves cooling foods during the summer. So, what should you reach for?

-Cucumber water- aids in hydration & detoxification, add in some lemon and herbs and you add a healthy dose of antioxidants & Vitamins A & C.

-Watermelon-it’s chock full of water! Watermelon is easy to digest, therefore takes the body less energy.

-Leafy greens-most raw fruits and veggies are 80-95% water, which in turn means easy on the digestive system!

-Berries-strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cranberries all create cold energy in the body. Grab these “seasonal” fruits and toss them into your favorite salad for an extra cool down.

-Coconut-this exotic fruit has become much more mainstream due to the immense amount of health properties. Coconut meat and water both contain cooling properties. Grab some today!

Integrate these cooling foods and embrace the “dog days” of summer cool, calm and collected! Enjoy.....

Cooling Cucumber Water Cucumber, mint and a wedge of lemon!

Kelly Krekelberg Health Coach