During the hot summer, sweating profusely, air-conditioned rooms and cold foods have become people’s choices for beating the heat. However, while enjoying the coolness, there are certain “cooling” behaviors that might harm the body and deserve attention.
First, one should control the intake of cold foods, such as chilled watermelon, cold drinks, and ice-cold beer. Although these foods can provide temporary relief, they can lead to the contraction of the stomach’s blood vessels, affecting digestion and creating a breeding ground for bacteria, which over time may weaken the body’s immune system.
Second, it is not advisable to rinse one’s feet with cold water. In summer, feet tend to sweat and are exposed, and the stimulation from cold water can cause sweat glands to suddenly shut down, possibly resulting in vasospasm in the extremities, increasing the risk of arthritis and rheumatism. It is recommended to soak feet in warm water, especially for women during their menstrual periods, as they should avoid cold water on their feet to prevent blood circulation issues that could lead to gynecological problems.
Moreover, one should not stay outside for too long to enjoy the coolness at night. Nighttime is a period when yang energy accumulates in the body; overindulgence in coolness can reduce this accumulation, leading to a decline in physical condition over time.
It is also inadvisable to go directly into an air-conditioned room after bathing. When the skin is wet, pores are open, and the cold air from the air conditioner can easily carry in coldness, which may cause a recurrence or worsening of symptoms for those with preexisting joint or neck issues.
Finally, one should avoid having fans or air conditioners blow directly on the head while sleeping. Cold air can cause a sudden drop in scalp temperature, affecting blood flow to the brain, especially in the elderly, which carries a risk of stroke. Additionally, some people may experience facial paralysis due to the unilateral breeze from the fan while sleeping, which could lead to facial cooling.
In summary, summer heat avoidance should be reasonable, and overindulgence in coolness should be avoided to protect one’s health.
