Have you ever noticed how the heat tends to bring out the not-so-best in people? I have, as recent as a subway ride earlier this week. Packed in like sardines in a tin can, I observed a car of New Yorkers impatiently grumble, jumble and let out sighs of misery, which if the collective train had a subtitle would have read, "Get me out. It's @#$%*&# hot!"

I could have let the ride get the better half of me; but, I opted for the yogin's path instead practicing contentment. This was a long-awaited summer after all. I also began jotting down a list of things that help keep me keep me cool -- in mind and body -- amidst a hot mess of chaos.