Staying cool this summer doesn't mean running the AC all day long. Shenaz Treasuryvala uses some nature-friendly ways to keep cool while Mumbai is blazing hot. She shares her chilling off formulas...
The hand fan: I go Parsi! Ever seen old Parsis on their grand balconies in their arm-chairs fanning themselves? The hand fan is a great tip I have adopted from my older Parsi folk. So, if you see me at Khushru Baug with a fan chatting up a Parsi uncle, wave!
The belly move: I belly dance. Ever noticed Chinese men lifting their shirts up and baring their belly? No, I don't think they are trying to be sexy. That's just their way of staying cool. I do feel that baring my mid-riff makes me feel not only sexier but cooler. Maybe that's why the saree was invented.
Cold wave: I put ice cubes against my wrist pulse, neck pulse, even earlobes. It cools me down instantly. In fact, even when I'm in a bad mood, I rub ice on my pulse points, I feel brighter.
Sweat it out: I eat chillies! My Thai friends tell me that it's an ancient Thai belief that chillies stimulate circulation and raise body temperature. Apparently, the increase in body temperature can make you feel cooler by inducing sweating, which cools the body when the perspiration evaporates'. Ouch! My tongue's on fire now. Khapunmaka!
Clothes on: I take a few quick icy showers. I plant trees. In desperate times, I've even dived into the pool with my clothes on and I let in the breeze by wearing cute airy Catholic aunty frocks. Ya fashion police, I'd love to hear what you have to say about that! (Smiles)
