Chill Out for Summer with Self-Care for Hot Days
This heat is nuts! We all know that staying hydrated is vital, especially during these scorching hot days. But did you know that dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and even impaired cognitive function?
According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, even mild dehydration can affect mood and concentration.
Also, when the sun is unforgiving, our bodies lose water rapidly through sweat, and it’s important to replenish those fluids continuously. Proper hydration not only helps regulate body temperature but also supports organ function, boosts energy levels, and keeps our skin glowing.
So, let’s make sure we keep sipping water throughout these hot summer days to stay healthy and strong.
I happen to love drinking water, but I know that not everyone does. I’ve got some easy, refreshing infused water and ice recipes that might help.
And, here are the silicone ice cube trays, infuser water bottles, and pitchers I use. (click for my Amazon influencer shop, you get the same prices, I earn a commission – thank you!)
The basic infused water “recipe” is so easy, it feels silly to call it a recipe:
Step 1: Grab your favorite fruits, veggies, and herbs. Think about refreshing combinations like cucumber and mint, lemon and lime, or strawberries and basil.
Step 2: Slice the ingredients and add them to a pitcher of water.
Step 3: Let the water sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 4: Pour yourself a glass of this naturally flavored water and feel revitalized.
Infused water not only tastes amazing but also provides you with essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a win-win!
For the ice cube “recipes”, just place your fresh ingredients in each compartment of an ice cube tray, fill the tray with water and freeze until solid. Pop a couple in your water for added flavor while staying cool.
I’m happy to share some of my favorite recipes to try:
Infused Water Recipes
Pineapple-Orange-Basil Infused Water:
Fresh pineapple chunks
Orange slices
Fresh basil leaves
Water
Watermelon-Lime-Mint Infused Water:
Watermelon cubes
Lime slices
Fresh mint leaves
Water
Raspberry-Lemon-Lavender Infused Water:
Fresh or frozen raspberries
Lemon slices
Dried lavender buds (culinary-grade)
Water
Ginger-Peach-Rosemary Infused Water:
Fresh ginger slices
Peach slices
Fresh rosemary sprigs
Water
Ice Cube Recipes
Coconut Water Ice Cubes:
Pure coconut water (without added sugar)
Optional: Small pieces of fresh fruits (e.g., berries, pineapple) for extra flavor
Cucumber-Melon Ice Cubes:
Fresh cucumber slices
Melon cubes (watermelon, cantaloupe, or honeydew)
Water
Mango-Passionfruit Ice Cubes:
Fresh mango chunks
Passionfruit pulp (scoop out from fresh passionfruit or use bottled)
Water
Mint-Blueberry Ice Cubes:
Fresh mint leaves
Fresh blueberries
Water
Fruit Ice Cubes:
Your favorite fruits (strawberries, kiwi, orange slices)
water
Cucumber-Mint Ice Cubes:
Fresh cucumber slices
Fresh mint leaves
Water
Citrus-Berry Ice Cubes:
Lemon slices
Lime slices
Fresh berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Water
The possibilities are endless when it comes to infused water and ice cube recipes. Mix and match your favorite fruits, herbs, and spices to create your own signature combinations. Experiment with flavors, stay hydrated, and enjoy the delicious coolness on these hot days. Cheers to a fantastic and refreshing summer!