A Real Monsoon Memory to Begin With
I still remember the July my sister got soaked in the first proper rain of the season. The smell of wet earth, her soaked school uniform, the laughter—it was pure magic. Three days later? She was wrapped in a blanket with a raging fever and throat infection. That's when my mother’s monsoon rules started becoming gospel in our house. You might relate—rainy season is a nostalgic joy and a practical nightmare rolled into one. It brings relief from the heat, but also a long list of preventable health issues. Let’s walk through some real, useful precautions (learned the hard way), not textbook theory.
1. Shoes That Don’t Slip and Soak
If you’re still using sneakers or open sandals in the rain, you’re inviting fungal infections and sprained ankles. Use anti-skid, washable footwear. They're lifesavers—literally. Also: keep a separate pair at your door so you don’t track muddy water into your home.
2. Don’t Drink That Tempting Street Juice
Fresh lime juice or that colourful kala-khatta might feel irresistible, but they’re often made with untreated water. Stick to bottled or boiled water, especially when you're eating out. Pro tip: keep ORS sachets at home in case you or someone feels dehydrated after an unexpected stomach bug.
3. Raincoats Over Umbrellas—Always
Umbrellas are romantic, sure. But if you’re in a city where winds turn them inside out every other day, it’s just stress. Raincoats with hoods win every time—your arms are free, your bag stays dry, and your phone survives.
4. Don’t Ignore the Itchy Skin
Monsoon = moisture = fungal infections. That random itch on your feet or underarms? It’s not “nothing.” Keep your body dry after bathing. Use an antifungal powder if needed—especially if your clothes stay damp long after you've worn them.
5. Watch What You Eat—Especially the ‘Comfort Food’
You may crave pakoras, spicy street food, or extra greasy stuff in the monsoon. We all do. But monsoon slows down digestion, and street foods carry high contamination risk. My advice: have your fritters at home. At least you know the oil’s fresh.
6. Keep Power Backups & Lights Handy
Storms and rains mean power cuts. It’s no fun stumbling around in the dark. Always: Charge your power banks regularly. Keep a flashlight near your bed. Get extra batteries in advance. Consider a small solar lamp if you’re in a rain-heavy zone.
7. Ventilate Even When It’s Damp
Closed windows keep the rain out—but they trap moisture in. This leads to mold, breathing trouble, and a musty smell that clings to everything. Crack open a window, even just for 20 minutes a day. Use exhaust fans or dehumidifiers if you have one.
Monsoon Health Kit Checklist
Here’s what we keep at home every rainy season:
- Waterproof boots and jackets
- Antifungal powder or cream
- ORS packets
- Mosquito repellents
- Basic first aid kit
- Digital thermometer
- Glucometer and BP monitor (especially for elders)
- Face masks (yes, colds spread faster in the rain)
You can find many of these essentials—like glucometers, BP monitors, thermometers, and face masks—on platforms like Aarogyaa Bharat, delivered right to your home.
FAQs
Q. Is it okay to walk in the rain if I dry off immediately after?
If you change into dry clothes and warm up quickly, usually yes. But don’t let wet clothes stay on for long—it invites cold and skin issues.
Q. What foods help immunity during monsoon?
Home-cooked, light meals with garlic, turmeric, and ginger go a long way. Seasonal fruits like jamun, pears, and papaya are great too.
Q. Are face masks still needed in monsoon?
Absolutely. In crowded spaces, masks can protect you from airborne flu and infections that spread rapidly in damp weather.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Rain, But Respect It Too
The monsoon is beautiful. The smell of the first rain, the lazy evenings, the hot chai moments—they're unforgettable. But beneath that beauty is a season that demands attention, hygiene, and a little caution. This year, be a little more prepared. Rain isn’t just a weather update—it’s a shift in how we care for ourselves. Stay dry, stay safe—and yes, enjoy those pakoras, just maybe with a side of warm water and a clean towel nearby.
