Am I the only one who feels like Harmattan in Ghana this year is super intense?
Given that the season is a precursor to dust allergy and mosquito breeding season, dry, cracking skin, chilly nights, and early mornings, you’re better off knowing how to handle the weather change.
In today’s post, we explore ways to beat the weather at its own game, remaining healthy and refreshed amidst the dust and wind.
The Harmattan in Ghana does not have to get in the way of a great time.
Be dressed for the weather
The winds can get a bit wild, heavy with dust and sand. Aside from the dust getting caught up in your hair, they could also get in your eyes, nose, and mouth – especially in areas with dirt paths and mostly untarred roads.
It helps to keep your nose mask on in wind-prone areas (I know it might be annoying but try it out) and on dirt trails when you’re taking a stroll or going out on a few errands.
You could also wear a scarf or hat to protect your hair from dust and wind.
Drink water, water, water
Hydrating is always important, but especially during Harmattan.
The skin dries up faster due to less humidity in the air and it’s easy for our airways like the nose and mouth to lose more moisture than in normal Ghanaian weather.
Water also cleanses the body, revitalizes our blood cells by helping our kidneys remove impurities within our bodies.
When in doubt, drink some more water. At least two bottles a day. It goes a long way.
Moisturize, baby
In these dry months, skin moisturizers are king!
Our skin dries out much quicker during Harmattan, leaving us prone to peeling and breaking, breakouts from dust allergies, dried out noses and chapped lips.
What makes dry, broken skin undesirable is the easy infection of exposed wounds.
PS: You should definitely try out MaaShea, their shea butter is top notch!
Moisturizers not only strengthen and refresh skin, they act as a protective barrier between it and the environment.
Shea Butter is a commonly used cure-all for moisturizers because of it’s richness in vitamins A, E and D. It is also a humectant, so it captures moisture from the atmosphere while drawing out moisture from the deeper layers of our skin.
Also, generously apply it to your lips and into your nose for moisture and easier breathing, respectively.
A balanced diet is key
Eating foods in quantities that give your body the energy you need is a basic need that must be met. It is also important to include foodstuffs that supply you with the nutrients you need for healthy growth.
Poor eating habits result in a weakened immune system and overall lack of vibrancy that does not help when it comes to building fortitude, to deal with the environment and weather.
Make sure your diet includes carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle and tissue repair and fruits and vegetables for vitamins, minerals and roughage.
Harmattan in Ghana - our Conclusion
The Harmattan can be a tough period but thankfully there is a way to beat the weather and have a great time in the process.
Taking care of yourself should be the utmost priority and we hope this article opened your eyes to new information.
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the weather!
Click here to read about Tips on how to make living in Ghana easier!
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