Slow Living in the Desert in July

July in the desert is anything but romantic or dreamy.  The harsh heat keeps most of us indoors and slow living becomes a way of life for survival.  Many do thrive during this time but I think in my mind they must be reptilian as no one was meant to live in extreme desert heat conditions. And although quite brutal at times there is a beauty the desert offers that draws so many of us here to make a life.

  In July many of us do our best to escape to the Az mountains or "flee to the mountains" as I like to say.  We take mini retreats.  Arizona isn't only a desert like many would believe.  There are so many beautiful places to enjoy where one can romanticize blooming flowers,

go on mountain hikes, fish or swim in cool lakes and streams, camp in forests, participate in art walks and festivals and any number of activities throughout the state.  I hope to write more about our lifestyle here in this unique and magnificent part of the country that is like no where else in the world.  But if you are a long time resident of  the desert you know life is a bit different   We slow down.  We try to get most of our chores done in the early morning hours and slow down in the afternoons and then come alive again in the eves.  It is important for anyone coming here in July (and even those living here) to understand heat related illnesses and know how to spot symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.  It's about adapting and being smart and even then no one is immune to a heat related disaster.  

Hydration is of utmost importance in the desert.  Of course we know to drink more water but it is also possible to increase water intake by eating more water-rich fruits and veggies like cucumbers, apples, melons, tomatoes and zucchini as the body hydrates itself while digesting these foods.  It is a time to drink more herbal teas and fruit infusions.  To make sipping liquids a quenching pleasure, choose a pretty pitcher and set it on your desk or countertop, wherever you will see it easily.  Keep a glass nearby and drink up. Also, you may not think about soups in July but soups, even hot ones, can help you stay hydrated, which is crucial in the desert heat.  The water and ingredients  in soup can help maintain body fluid and electrolyte balance, which can be depleted in hot weather.  Soup is a lighter option to consume a variety of nutrients and when baking is out of the question, soups and salads are a great way to go.  

In July you may be surprised to know that the Arizona desert offers a plethora of seasonal fruits and vegetables.  It may seem like an impossibility and one may think how could anything possibly grow in 110 degree daytime temps.  But you would also be surprised to find a variety of melons, like honeydew and cantaloupe, along with figs, grapes and even some late-season berries like blackberries.  

Ladies, did you know blackberries are a beauty food?  They are brimming with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant phytochemicals.  They are known for their ability to support elasticity and brain health and defend against DNA damage.  They aid in blood sugar balance and defend against skin wrinkling!  Blackberries and their fibrous seeds are excellent for digestive health and they contain collagen building vitamin C as well as beauty minerals iron and manganese to aid in gorgeous hair.  They are also one of the few alkaline fruits, making them especially supportive of healthy pH balance in the body.  

As for desert veggies, peppers, okra and various squash with some early harvests of corn and tomatoes is possible. Other veggies you may find in the desert SW are cucumbers, corn, green beans, sweet potatoes, asparagus, carrots, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celery, zucchini, basil, beet root, bok choy, broccoli, cauliflower, peas, squash and more!  Isn't it amazing to know you can thrive in the desert with proper care and planning?  Check out our many farms and farmers markets.  If you live here and want to try your hand at gardening in the desert in July, start with tomatoes, peppers and eggplants and begin inside.  Tending to plants with shade and water is imperative.  

For a yummy July treat in the desert, try making and tasting frozen yogurt bark.  A simple and customizable treat made by spreading yogurt on a baking sheet, adding toppings and then freezing.  Mmmmm!  So cool and delicious!

In my next blog as part of a Desert Slow Living in July series I will share some activities that are fun and safe as well as share places to visit in Az in the summer where you can stop and smell the flowers.  Future blogs will also include our monsoon season weather, lavender farms, desert SW style and decor as well as heartfelt gratitude and reflection on life in the desert.