Stay Cool Naturally This Summer

While many of us enjoy the sunshine, periods of hot weather can sometimes leave us feeling tired, restless, irritable, or struggling to sleep. If the heat is getting a little too much, these simple acupressure points and self-care tips may help you stay comfortable during warmer weather.

Three Cooling Points

• LI-11 (Quchi) - The Cooling Point

  • Located at the outer end of the elbow crease when the elbow is bent.

  • Apply firm, comfortable pressure for about 1 minute on each arm.

  • May help with: 
    Feeling overheated
    Headaches
    Flushed skin
    Irritability

• PC-8 (Laogong) - The Calming Point

  • Located in the centre of the palm where the tip of the middle finger touches when making a loose fist.

  • Massage for 30–60 seconds on each hand.

  • May help with:  
    Restlessness
    Feeling hot and bothered
    Difficulty relaxing            

• KD-1 (Yongquan) - The Grounding Point

  • Located on the sole of the foot, about one-third of the way down from the toes.

  • Massage for 1–2 minutes on each foot.

  • May help with: 
    Headaches

    Dizziness

    Difficult sleeping in hot weather

A Simple Summer Routine

1. Press LI-11 on both arms for 1 minute.

2. Massage PC-8 on both palms for 30–60 seconds.

3. Massage KD-1 on both feet for 1–2 minutes.

4. Finish with a cool cloth on the back of the neck or a cool hand and wrist soak.
   

Use these points and cooling techniques whenever you feel overheated or uncomfortable during hot weather. The aim is to feel refreshed, not chilled.

Three Ways to Cool Down Naturally

• Cool the Back of Your Neck

  • Place a cool, damp cloth or bandana over the base of the back of your neck. 

  • This can feel particularly refreshing after being outdoors or spending time in the heat.

• Cool Your Hands and Wrists

  • Soak your hands and wrists in cool water for a few minutes or run cool water over them. 

  • This is a quick and effective way to help your body feel cooler.

• Try a Cool Foot Bath

  • Soak your feet in cool water for 5–10 minutes. 

  • This can help draw heat down from the head and body while promoting relaxation.

Summer Wellbeing Tips

• Drink water regularly throughout the day.

• Enjoy seasonal foods with a high water content, such as cucumber, melon, berries, and leafy greens.

• Take breaks in the shade during the hottest part of the day.

• Listen to your body and rest when needed.

A Note of Caution

If you experience severe dizziness, confusion, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or symptoms of heat stroke, seek urgent medical attention. If hot weather leaves you feeling exhausted, struggling to sleep, or suffering from headaches, acupuncture may help support your body's natural balance throughout the summer months.