The sun doesn’t knock before it enters anymore. These days, it barges in fierce, bold, and uninvited setting everything on fire, including my peace. I sometimes wake up feeling like I’ve slept inside an oven. The walls radiate heat, the fan spins like it’s running from something, and stepping outside feels like walking straight into a giant hairdryer. This summer has been different. Brutal, intense, almost disrespectful. But instead of just complaining, I’ve started doing something about it, both for myself and in my own little way, for the environment too.
To keep myself sane and cool, I’ve returned to some forgotten, traditional ways that worked for our grandparents before air conditioners became common. First thing I did was to change my routine. I now wake up much earlier to get most of my tasks done before the heat hits full blast. My water bottle is now my best friend. I never step out without it, and I drink water like it’s my job. I’ve cut down on oily food and eat lighter meals with more fruits like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges. Trust me, it helps more than energy drinks or cold sodas.
At home, I’ve taken some simple steps to reduce the indoor heat. I keep the curtains drawn during the hottest part of the day and switch to white bedsheets which don’t trap heat. I even started planting more indoor plants like snake plants and aloe Vera cheap, low-maintenance, and they genuinely help with the air quality and mood.
But I didn’t stop there
On the community level, I joined hands with a few neighbors to plant trees around our compound. It’s a small effort, but even one tree gives shade to someone. We also spoke to our local chai-wala to stop burning plastic for tea preparation, he now uses a cleaner source. It’s not a global change, but small drops make an ocean.
I’ve also made a conscious decision to reduce my gadget usage during peak hours to save power. It not only helps reduce electricity bills, but it cuts down the heat generated from appliances. I unplug devices when not in use and take breaks from my phone. Not everything needs to be done online when your body is offline due to heat stress.
In short, I’m not just dealing with the heat. I’m understanding it. This summer has taught me that staying cool isn’t only about ACs and cold drinks. It’s about adjusting, caring, and thinking ahead. If we all take small actions in our corners, the overall effect can be huge.
So yes, I’m hot. But I’m also hopeful
Images are Ai generated
