Hello, everyone!
I hope this post finds you well. Living in Tarxien, a historic inland town in Malta’s Port Region, I’ve come to appreciate the quieter side of Mediterranean living. Right now, though, we’re in the middle of extreme heat, with temperatures climbing to around 40°C. Like many people, I keep the air conditioning on whenever I’m home and find myself hoping there won’t be any power cuts.
Power cuts have become an unwelcome part of life during heatwaves in Malta. When the demand for electricity spikes, the system can struggle, and sudden blackouts leave homes without cooling at the worst possible time. It’s a shared worry across the islands at the moment — the relief of AC mixed with the quiet anxiety of whether it will keep running.
Even in these conditions, I’ve been trying to hold on to a few gentle morning habits that still feel inspired by the Mediterranean way of life. They’re adapted for the heat and for the reality of relying on air conditioning.
1. Make the most of the cool indoor air
With the AC running, the first moments of the day feel more manageable. I try not to rush straight into tasks. Instead I sit for a few minutes in the coolest room, letting my body wake up slowly while the air conditioning does its job.
2. Start with something hydrating and light
In this heat a warm drink doesn’t appeal. I usually begin with a glass of water or a lightly chilled herbal infusion. Staying ahead of dehydration feels especially important when the temperatures are this high and we’re spending so much time indoors.
3. Keep breakfast simple and fresh
Mediterranean mornings often centre around uncomplicated food. Right now I stick to things that are easy on the body: seasonal fruit, a little vegan yoghurt, a few nuts, or a small slice of bread with tomato and olive oil. Nothing heavy.
4. Move only if it feels right
On the hottest days I don’t force exercise. A few gentle stretches indoors are enough. The Mediterranean approach has always valued listening to the body, and right now that means respecting the heat and the tiredness that comes with it.
5. Protect a few quiet, screen-free minutes
Even with the AC humming in the background, I try to keep the very beginning of the morning relatively free of notifications. Those first ten or fifteen minutes of calm help the day feel less overwhelming.
6. Stay prepared for possible power cuts
Like many households, I’ve started keeping a few practical things ready — charged power banks, a battery-powered fan, cold water in the fridge, soy candles and matches or lighter within easy reach. It’s not dramatic, just a quiet acknowledgement that blackouts can happen when the grid is under pressure.
The Mediterranean lifestyle has always been about adapting to the climate rather than fighting it. This summer is testing that idea more than usual. Some mornings are simply about staying cool, conserving energy, and hoping the electricity holds. There’s still room for small, gentle habits inside that reality.
How are you coping with the heat and the threat of power cuts? Have you changed your morning routine at all? I’d love to hear how you’re managing.
Until next time, stay as cool as possible and take care of yourselves.
With love,
