Summer can be intense in Florence, with temperatures soaring to 40 degrees. While we can do our best to avoid midday sun exposure, it’s not always practical. Luckily, we have 5 proactive tips to keep your body cool and balanced during the peak of pitta season.
1. Historically, water fountains were placed throughout cities as respite from the summer heat. Florence takes it one step further with purified drinking water fountains! Scattered throughout the city, at least one of these fountains even features a sparkling water option. Phil the bottle makes reusable water bottles inscribed with a list of streets where you can them—you can snag one at Museo Novecento.
Cool tip: Make your drink even more hydrating (and refreshing) by adding a splash of coconut water, cucumber or watermelon, and resist the urge to drink overly iced water, as your body must work harder—and get warmer—to digest it.
2. It can be handy to carry a spritzer filled with distilled water and a dash of mint essence from Bizzarri or rose water from Officina de’ Tornabuoni for an on-the-go instant refreshment. Spray the back of your neck or wrists to cool down.
3. When it comes to meal planning, stick to sweet, bitter and astringent flavors, which are ideal for cooling the body. You can find delicious seasonal food and juices from Shake, Raw and Carduccio, to name a few.
4. It’s important not to overdo your physical activity in the summer. Light yoga and evening walks are gentle ways to keep your body active but still in balance during the hotter months. If you can take that walk under the moonlight, you can engage in a little moon bathing, which is believed to promote harmony in the body and reduce inflammation.
5. Heat doesn’t only affect us physically, but mentally and emotionally too. Practising affirmations of loving kindness, ideally while standing with your feet on dewy morning grass, can help maintain emotional balance and prevent overheated reactions.
By integrating these simple yet effective strategies, you can enjoy the beauty of Florence while keeping balanced throughout the summer months.
