NEW DELHI, India – With the sun burning bright and a persistent hot dry wind, there is hardly a place in the city where you can take refuge. Whether it is traveling to exotic locations or quality time with friends and family, a small summer vacation is a must. This also applies whether you’re a closet foodie or the most efficient packer ever – a break from usual routine brings freshness and delight to your mind. Taking a vacation in the summer months from work is one of the most cherished experiences we have each year. Sometimes, due to various reasons the break from your normal life may not be possible to a holiday destination but you may still be seeking rejuvenation for your mind. So here are some ideas to beat the summer heat for both body and mind.

Music to my ears

Cancel out the annoying voice of your boss that still lingers in your head or the ungodly sounds of the city traffic that haunt you through the night with the right music. A great soundtrack can set the mood right on a hot summer’s day. Perhaps you can compile a collection of classic rock and folk music that will teleport you to a cross-country road trip the moment you put on your headphones and close your eyes. A good playlist on your iPod might help you enjoy your summer no matter where you are.

A change in scenery?

Whether you’re in the mountains or on the beach, strolling through a European metropolis or spending time with your family back home, a new setting will rejuvenate your mind. One of the best parts of traveling is getting wrapped up in the local life and culture. Keep a notebook or running list on your phone of the different sites, restaurants, monuments, beaches and anything else you do on your trip.

Reviving a hobby

Vacations are the perfect excuse to practice your photography skills, brush up on your writing skills or polish that one foreign language you learnt but never used. Whether you’re diligently mastering the features of a DSLR or scribbling away on a sticky note, keep looking for details in architecture, cultural nuances and interesting people that you ignore otherwise. Select the best photos from your adventures, or a short story on the life on animals in the city and share it on a blog post.

Culinary skills

Perhaps you’re a closet chef, perhaps a vacation just brings out your desire to try and use the kitchen in your condo. Recipes and food are loved and enjoyed by just about everyone – because all we have to do is eat. Call your friends and family over and share your delightful meals with them. Catching up over a delicious dinner can help you unwind and relax.

Shop to redecorate

Instead of going on a vacation, why not just bring the vacation home. Whether it’s a grand department store or a flea market, go out and buy things you love. Redecorate your home with new curtains, drapes and home décor. The revamped summer décor will soothe you every time you walk into your abode.