How to Live Your Best Life in Arizona
Hello my darling readers ❤️✨️
I was just painting away in my studio and suddenly I started thinking about what a blessing it is to be doing my creative work from the comfort of my studio aka my bedroom 😝
I can stay cool and relaxed indoors. I can work at whatever pace I need for the day.
One of the reasons I was determined to establish my art business was so I would have the freedom to prioritize my overall health.
I am very passionate about health and wellness 🌿
It's an essential part of my creative work ✨️
Living in Arizona is relatively peaceful but this desert heat is no joke and we all need to look out for one another to thrive in this extremely hot weather 🔥
So I came up with a list of the essentials you need to live your best life in Arizona 🏜✨️
The Arizona heat is not for the faint of heart — but that doesn't mean you can't live beautifully in it. Whether you're a desert local, creative spirit, or soft girl learning to survive the scorch, here are my favorite tips, tools, and gentle reminders for not only surviving but thriving under the sun 🌞✨️
✨️ This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my creative work and hydration routine 🌸💦💗
1.Water Bottle
Wherever you go, wherever you are, this water bottle needs to be with you at all times. Non-negotiable 😤
And make sure it's one you love 🩷
I'm really adoring this Ello waterbottle because it reminds me of one of my favorite characters in Demon Slayer
🍈🌸💗✨️
*btw I got my specific color combo at target 😅 the ones linked above are still the same model and brand
2. Liquid IV or Electrolyte Support
I'm just going to say it right now.
Liquid IV
if you want someone to proudly promote your products, I will do it 😤
To be honest I think the AZ government should give out free Liquid IVs and sunscreen 💁🏼♀️
It's really hot here darling readers 😭😭
Regular water might not always be enough so it's really helpful to have an electrolyte support on hand.
In fact, I have actually had two incidents where Liquid IV saved me 😂
One was when I was taking my usual hot shower
(I'm really sensitive to the cold, that's why I'm still in AZ 😆 )
And the other time was when I was doing a muay thai class 🥊
(The workout was HARD but very exciting nonetheless 😆)
So stock up on your Liquid IVs 💦
*I personally really enjoy the watermelon flavor 🍉✨️
3. UPF 50+ Umbrella
Probably one of my favorite sun protection tools ☂️✨️
I happen to have a hypersensitive nervous system and this means extra sensory sensitivity. I can sometimes have difficulties with textures, sounds, lights, temperatures.
And so when it comes to hats and sunglasses?
Not quite my favorite tools 😅
I just do not like to have anything on my face except for my silk face mask 😆
A sun umbrella with UPF 50+ protection is perfect! Cute, compact, and blocks UVs like a force field 🛡
4. Sunscreen
A must — every. single. day.
No exceptions 😤
Those UV rays are vicious so please wear your sunscreen.
And definitely read up on some of the ingredients if you have specific sensitivities or concerns
I really love the Daily Relief Sunscreen from Beauty of Joseon 🤍
To be honest I love practically every product of Beauty of Joseon 💮✨️
*you can also purchase their products on YesStyle or their Shopify store
And a more heavy duty sunscreen I love is by Blue Lizard. The formula can be quite thick but it does protect your skin and it's perfect for the days you want to enjoy the outdoors.
5. UV Protection Sunglasses
Even if I struggle to keep these on, it is a must have accessory to live in Arizona 😆
Your eyes need protection too 💝
Look for polarized lenses or UV400-rated options to really shield your eyes in that blinding desert brightness 🔆
6. Portable Fans
A must have for your desk, room, car.
On-the-go??
And there's a variety to choose from too 😊
You can get battery powered fans or find some cute folding fans at Daiso 💓
7. Car Sunshield
So you don't feel like you're stepping in a 400°F oven 😭😭
Go for a foldable reflective kind to protect your dashboard and your peace 💫
8. Loose Linen or UPF Clothing
Anything loose, soft, and flowy will certainly make living in the desert much more pleasant ✨️
There's many different styles to choose from and incorporate into your unique style 🎀
I personally love wearing lightweight jackets or an oversized blouse 🥰
9. Cute UPF Hats
Again, not my personal favorite but it's a must have accessory to enjoy the sunshine while protecting your face and neck ☀️
And nowadays there's many more styles to choose from!
10. Hibiscus Tea
My favorite 🌺💗✨️
Refreshing, cooling, and great for hydration. The flower petals are delightfully fragrant and have this beautiful red violet color ❤️
*I usually get mine from our local Mexican markets (flor de jamaica) but do check out other local herb shops!
Any cup will do — but why not make it cute??
Romanticize hydration 🌸💦💗
Why Hydration Matters
Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially in this dry intense heat. It doesn't just make you thirsty — it messes with your brain, energy, cravings, and muscles. I've had dehydration affect my ability to focus and even make me feel foggy or weirdly emotional.
The Effects of Dehydration:
Brain fog + irritability
Dizziness, fatigue
Muscle stiffness + cramps
Intense cravings (because your body is begging for minerals)
Puffy skin + sluggish detox
And in extreme cases — heatstroke
💗 That's why I talk so much about water, Liquid IV, and cooling drinks like hibiscus tea. Hydration is self-care 🌸💦💗
🏵 Bonus Essentials
Cooler
Keep it in your car or even at home to store cold drinks, fruit, or your hibiscus tea 🌺✨️
It's a lifesaver for those extra hot days.
Insulated Lunch Bag
Arizona has stellar cafés (future post on this later 😉)
But you'll save so much money packing your own meals. Plus, you can keep snacks cold and ready when you're out adventuring 🏜✨️
Water Bottle Sling
Especially great for hands-free hydration on walks or errands. Do be mindful of when you go out 😉
Badger Stress Soother Balm
Oh to be a peaceful badger sitting beside a tranquil stream of water in lush green forest 🏞
It's good to have for those moments when you need to recenter yourself amidst the scorching rays of the sun 🔆
🖌 Indoor Watercolor Fun
When it's too much to be out and about, I like to keep creative indoors 🏡
These are some fabulous tools to keep the creativity flowing indoors and the best part is that it's super easy to travel with 😉
Sakura Koi Watercolor Set
Viviva Watercolor Sheets
Watercolor Brush Pens
Sketchbook for Mixed Media
Thank you so much for reading!!
I hope you all stay safe and hydrated under the desert sun 🏜✨️
And now I'm curious about you 🥰 Do you live in Arizona or another desert climate?
What are your favorite tools, products, or creative hacks to thrive in the heat?
Drop your recommendations and stories in the comments! I love learning from others and building a cozy helpful space where we can all support each other in this wild weather. ✨️☀️
Nos vemos!!
🌸☁️✨️
