Itz Holistically Wholesome

Summer didn’t tiptoe in this year, she burst through the door like, “I’m here, and I’m not playing with y’all.” After a winter that overstayed her welcome and stole a few of summer’s days, the heat has come back with a vengeance.

Reports are showing temperatures so extreme that traffic poles have literally begun melting in parts of Italy and Berlin. Melting! Poles!

One TikToker said, “If this isn’t a sign to get right with God, because who is going to hell? Certainly not me.” And honestly, as believers, we know the Bible speaks clearly about the last days, but that’s a conversation for another post.

Right now, New Yorkers are being warned to brace themselves as temperatures could hit 100 degrees by Wednesday. That means we need to shift from complaining about being cold to taking this heat seriously.

What This Means for Us

Extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable , it’s dangerous. Heatstroke, dehydration, dizziness, and fatigue can sneak up quickly, especially for children and older adults.

This is the time to be intentional, wise, and proactive.

Practical Ways to Stay Safe

Here are a few simple but powerful steps to protect your health:

• Stay out of direct sun when possible, especially during peak hours (11 AM–4 PM).
• Hydrate consistently — water, coconut water, herbal teas, fresh juices, and smoothies.
• Avoid sugary drinks that spike your blood sugar and dehydrate you further.
• Eat water-rich fruits like pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon, oranges, and berries.
• Keep children hydrated — they lose water faster and often don’t notice thirst.
• Wear breathable clothing — cotton, linen, and loose-fitting fabrics.
• Check on vulnerable loved ones — elderly family members, pregnant women, and neighbors.
• Cool your home safely — fans, blackout curtains, and limiting oven use.

What’s the Temperature on Your Side?

Here in Valley Stream, we’re expecting intense heat this week — the kind that makes the sidewalk shimmer and the air feel heavy. I’ll be:

• Hydrating throughout the day
• Keeping the kids cool and shaded
• Watering my garden early in the morning
• Avoiding unnecessary errands during peak heat
• Leaning into slow, calm routines

Heatwaves remind us how fragile life is, and how important it is to care for our bodies, our families, and our communities. Stay safe, stay hydrated, and stay prayerful.

How do you plan to keep yourself and your family safe? Let us know in the comment section.

Be well and be blessed.

With love and purpose,
Tomika Chance
Itz Holistically Wholesome