Be Like the Sunflower: Staying Rooted in Health and Gratitude (Even When It’s 100 Degrees)

Author

Peggy Gleason
July 23, 2025

I walked outside the other day into the blazing summer heat—triple digits, the kind that makes the air shimmer—and what I saw took my breath away.

Five acres of sunflowers.

Tall. Bright. Bold. Each one standing proud, faces lifted toward the sun like they knew something we didn’t.

And maybe they do.

Because while most of us wilt in this kind of heat—physically, mentally, emotionally—sunflowers rise. They stay rooted. They keep reaching for the light.

And I thought… what if we could do the same?

What if, even when the world feels heavy or our bodies feel sluggish from the heat, we could plant our feet, soften our shoulders, and choose to thrive?

Here are 3 sunflower-inspired steps to stay healthy and grounded, even when the temperatures soar:

☀️ Step 1: Hydrate Like It’s Sacred

Just like sunflowers soak in sunlight and water, your body craves hydration to function well—especially in extreme heat.

Try this:

  • Start your day with a full glass of water before your coffee.

  • Add fresh mint or lemon to make it more inviting.

  • Set reminders if you forget to drink throughout the day.

🌻 Step 2: Move Gently, Not Aggressively

It’s easy to push ourselves with all-or-nothing thinking, but summer calls for gentleness. Sunflowers don’t strain—they follow the sun naturally.

Try this:

  • Swap intense workouts for a walk at sunrise or a light stretch indoors.

  • Let movement be about nourishment, not punishment.

  • Even 10 minutes of breath-based movement can shift your mood and metabolism.

🙏 Step 3: Practice Heat-Season Gratitude

Even when sweat is dripping and tempers are short, there’s always something to be thankful for.

Try this:

  • Each evening, write down 3 things that brought you joy—even if they’re small.

  • “I made time to rest today.”

  • “I had a fresh peach that was perfectly ripe.”

  • “I smiled at a stranger and they smiled back.”

Gratitude brings us back to the moment. It grounds us like roots in dry soil.

This season may feel intense, but it’s also ripe with beauty. The sunflowers reminded me that growth happens when we stay upright, stay present, and follow the light—even when it’s hot and uncomfortable.

So today, be like the sunflower. Rooted in wellness. Turned toward gratitude. Growing, even under pressure.

With warmth (and lots of water),

Dr. Peggy

Certified Psychology of Eating Coach
 Helping professional women build confidence through food, without guilt or restriction.

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