As we come into the last month of summer, things have been heating up.  Don't get me wrong, it's been a beautiful summer.  It's rare in my part of Texas to not have hit triple digits yet.  Nevertheless, in order to get outside and enjoy these last days of summer it's important to avoid over heating.  Here's a few hints to help your family do just that.

1. Peppermint Mist:
   Take a spray bottle and fill with water and 10   
   drops of peppermint essential oil.  Shake 
   vigorously, spray, and feel  
    refreshed!

2. Smoothies:
    My family LOVES smoothies.  Any kind will do.  Find a recipe that your family loves.  Blend 
    yogurt, frozen or fresh fruit, ice (optional), and any other herb or other flavoring you like. 

3. Frozen Tea Pops
    One of my friends passed on the idea of freezing peppermint tea into Popsicles.  Genius!  I have
    since been experimenting with a wide variety of cooling herbs.  Lemon Balm, Chamomile, and
    Lavender have been my favorites so far.  You can mix in a little honey before pouring into 
    Popsicle  molds if you like.  Added bonus: Lemon balm helps hot grumpy kids turn into little 
    angels again!

4. Eat Cooling Foods
    Cucumbers and Watermelon cool me all the way down to my toes.  I can literally feel the
    sensation.  Find those foods that do that for you.  Yogurt? Melons? Citrus?  Try them all.  And
    under no circumstances are you allowed to turn on the oven.

5. Siesta!
      That's right.  Take a nap.  During the hottest part of the day, put a peppermint or lavender tea
      soaked frozen washcloth on your forehead and lay down.  I know it's not always practical
      but even if it is for 2 minutes, it gives your body a chance to recharge and cool down.


Stay Cool,
Kristin Henningsen MS, CH, RYT