Heatwaves: Why the Heat Literally Drains Us of Our Energy

Thermoregulation Requires a Great Deal of Energy

To maintain a stable core temperature of around 37°C, the body has to work extremely hard in hot weather. Peripheral vasodilation helps dissipate heat through the skin, while sweating cools the body. But these mechanisms require a high energy expenditure, leading to rapid physical fatigue. The body draws on its reserves to cope with this thermal overload, which explains the sluggishness or heaviness you may feel during several days of a heatwave.

Silent Dehydration Causes Deep-Seated Fatigue

Even if you don’t necessarily feel thirsty, the body loses between 1 and 2.5 litres of water every day through sweating. When you don't replace this loss, dehydration sets in: fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and a drop in blood pressure can occur.

Slower Digestion Drains Your Energy

In summer, particularly during a heatwave, the body slows down its digestive processes to conserve energy. This slowdown causes bloating, nausea, or even a loss of appetite. As a result, the body can no longer use nutrients properly, which worsens fatigue.

High temperatures prevent the body from naturally lowering its core temperature to fall asleep. During a heatwave, sleep becomes lighter, more fragmented, and less restorative. This leads to chronic fatigue as the days go by. A fan is not the only way to make bedtime more comfortable: Peaceful Night Orange Blossom & Lemon Balm Pillow Mist sprayed onto your sheets or pillow can create a soothing atmosphere before bedtime, while leaving your skin feeling refreshed.

Irritability: A Common But Underestimated Symptom

Excessive heat also disrupts serotonin, our ‘feel-good’ hormone. When we’re dehydrated and sleep-deprived, regulating our emotions becomes more difficult. This results in irritability, mood swings, and even anxiety. A simple relaxation routine using organic aloe vera gel, massaged cool onto the temples, legs, or forearms, can provide immediate relief. This versatile product moisturises, refreshes and soothes the nervous system through the skin.

A Loss of Motivation Is a Physiological Response

In the heat, the brain receives less oxygen due to peripheral vasodilation. This shortage can lead to difficulty concentrating, impaired memory while working and a feeling of disorientation. In short, the entire alert and response system is put on standby. Drinking beverages regularly enriched with a spoonful of organic spirulina powder can support brain function thanks to its high content of iron, protein and B vitamins, levels of which are often depleted by sweating.

The Refreshing Power of Hydrosol Mists

Hydrosols can become valuable allies when temperatures become stifling. Fine Lavender Hydrosol is renowned for its soothing and refreshing properties. Used as an ingredient in a body mist, it provides an immediate cooling effect. You can also use it as a gentle toner for skin heated by the sun or hot flushes.

Opt for Ultra-Light Skincare Products

During a heatwave, avoid thick textures. Instead, choose lightweight skincare products that absorb quickly and include soothing active ingredients. Aroma-Zone’s moisturising body lotion, for example, combines hydration, freshness and comfort without any sticky residue. It soothes heat while restoring the skin barrier, which perspiration can strain.

Adapting Your Daily Routine to Ease the Strain on Your Body

Finally, the environment plays a crucial role. Closing the shutters during the day, opting for cold meals, and avoiding physical exertion during the hottest hours are habits worth adopting. But the body also needs support from within. Pure organic aloe vera juice, diluted in cool water, can be part of your daily routine, provided it is safe to drink. However, it should not be presented as a proven way to soothe the digestive system or protect the body against heat-related oxidative stress.

Dimitri has been interested in the connections between nature, health, and well-being for several years. As a writer, he loves to make complex topics accessible, with a strong preference for simple, natural, and effective approaches. Whether the topic is cosmetics, nutrition or wellness routines, he enjoys sharing practical and informed advice for a healthier everyday life.