Abu Dhabi summers are long and intense – high temperatures, humidity, bright sun outside and cold air-conditioning inside. In Ayurveda, heat is governed by Pitta dosha, and the UAE climate tends to push Pitta out of balance for many people. Here are practical Ayurvedic tips to stay cool, comfortable and well through the hot months.
Signs that Pitta may be high
Ayurveda links excess Pitta with symptoms such as:
- acidity, heartburn or loose stools
- skin rashes, redness, prickly heat or breakouts
- feeling irritable, impatient or easily overheated
- burning or tired eyes
- excessive thirst and disturbed sleep on hot nights
These symptoms can also have other causes, so persistent or severe problems should always be checked by a doctor.
Eat to stay cool
- Favour naturally cooling foods: cucumber, watermelon, melons, bottle gourd, zucchini, leafy greens, coconut water, fresh coriander and mint.
- Include sweet, bitter and astringent tastes – such as basmati rice, mung dal, pomegranate and ghee in moderation.
- Reduce very spicy, sour, salty, fried and fermented foods, as well as excess coffee and alcohol.
- Try diluted buttermilk with roasted cumin and fresh coriander after lunch – a traditional summer drink that supports digestion.
- Avoid iced drinks with meals; room-temperature or slightly cool water is gentler on digestion.
Hydration that works
Sip water steadily through the day rather than drinking large amounts at once. Coconut water, water infused with mint or fennel seeds, and coriander-seed water (soak a teaspoon overnight and strain) are traditional choices. If you work or exercise outdoors, follow medical advice on electrolytes and watch for signs of heat exhaustion such as dizziness, headache and nausea.
Daily routine for hot months
- Exercise early in the morning or after sunset, and choose moderate activity such as walking, swimming or gentle yoga.
- Rest during the hottest part of the day if you can.
- Wear loose, light-coloured cotton or linen.
- Apply a little coconut oil to the scalp and soles of the feet before bed – a traditional cooling practice.
- Do not sit directly under cold air-conditioning vents, and avoid moving quickly from heat into very cold rooms.
- Calming practices such as Sheetali breathing (a cooling breath) and short meditation help with heat-related irritability.
Cooling Ayurvedic therapies
Some Kerala therapies are especially valued in summer:
- Takra Dhara – a continuous stream of medicated buttermilk poured over the forehead, traditionally used to calm the mind and support sleep.
- Thalapothichil – a cooling herbal paste applied to the head.
- Netra Dhara and Tharpanam – for tired, strained eyes.
- Mukha Lepam – an Ayurvedic herbal facial for sun-stressed skin.
- Abhyanga with cooling oils chosen for Pitta.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to have oil treatments in summer?
Yes. Ayurveda simply changes the oils and methods – lighter, cooling oils and shorter sessions are used in hot weather.
Should everyone follow these tips?
These are general guidelines. If you have diabetes, kidney or heart conditions, or take regular medicines, check diet and fluid changes with your doctor. For a plan made for your body type, book a consultation.
Get a personalised summer plan in Abu Dhabi
Our doctors can recommend diet, routine and therapies based on your constitution. Visit Dhathri Gram Ayurvedic Medical Center at Muhammed Abdullah Juma Al Qubaisi Building, Plot No. C189, Shabiya 12, Mussafah, call 02 558 6608, or read about what happens at your first consultation.
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Seek urgent medical care for signs of heatstroke.
