Staying Cool in the Summer Heat
During these hot summer days; it is easy to turn to air conditioning as the simple solution to staying cool. Here are some other healthy alternatives to keep cool without using air conditioning all day long:
- Directing a fan pointing outside may seem opposite of what you want to do, but it will actually help to move the heat out to the house; also use fans to circulate the air within as well
- Drink lots of water to stay hydrated and keep yourself cool
- Use a spray bottle to lightly mist yourself for instant relieve
- Wear a water soaked bandana or use a cloth soaked in cool water to help keep you cool
- Wet your hair either entirely or just at the hairline to cool off while the water evaporates
- Soak your feet in a bucket of cool water or take a cool shower
- Wear light coloured clothing and loosely woven fabrics to help beat the heat at work and at home
- Eat light cool summer foods – salads, fruits and veggies as opposed to heavy hot spicy meals
- Use mint in your meals or snacks as it has cooling properties
- Use mint oil or lotion to help cool your skin down
- Use a cooled slice of cucumber on your forehead or eyes to provide instant relief
- Think cool
- Stay in your basement or lay on the floor – these areas will stay cooler as heat rises
- Keep your blinds and windows closed during the hottest parts of the day and only open both once the air has cooled
- Keep windows open overnight to enjoy the cool breeze as evening falls
- Workout during the cooler hours of early morning or later evening to ensure you do not overheat in the hot sun
- Use cotton bedding, it will keep you cooler and help air circulate better than heavier options
- Use cool stones – stones will stay cool for a while allowing you to place them on certain body areas – neck, temples, forehead, backs of knees and bottoms of feet – to cool your body system off
And remember to wear sunscreen, drink plenty of water and stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day to avoid sunburns, dehydration and sunstroke.