OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
When the sweltering heat of summer begins to wear you down, there are some things you can do to make it more comfortable. Even a drop in a few degrees can feel like an oasis in the middle of a scorching heat wave. Here are just a few tips for keeping cool during the summer months.
Cooling Down Outside
Just because you are out in the heat does not mean that you have to suffer. Ice cream, shaved ice, or any frozen treats will have an immediate effect on the way your body processes the heat. Keep plenty of ice cream in the freezer for you and the kids. If you have a community pool nearby get over there and jump in that water. The water will help to reduce your core temperature and make you feel more comfortable. Forget about watering the lawn and turn on the sprinklers and get yourself wet. Set up a nice beach chair near the sprinkler and enjoy the ice cold water.
Just Add Water
Water has an amazing effect on your body in the summer. Most importantly drink as much water as you can during the day, avoiding drinks like soda with lots of sugar. Take some of those ice packs that you have in the freezer and place them on your wrists. This will instantly chill the blood traveling through your veins. Find a spray bottle and fill it with water and a few ice cubes. keep that cooling mist nearby wherever you need a shot of ice cold air. These are actually perfect for standing in line at the amusement park. Soak a bandana with water and put in the freeze. Place on the back of your neck and you will feel a cool shot of ice cold goodness within seconds.
Cooling the House
Whether or not you have an air conditioner, you can drastically reduce the heat in the house by having an attic fan installed. Your air conditioner will run less saving you money on your utility bills. Fill up the bathtub with cool water and get in the tub. Once your body gets used to the cool temperature, begin adding ice cold water to the tub, adding slowly so your body has time to adjust. Before you know it you will be lying is a freezing cold tub of watery paradise.
During the hot summer months you should actively look for ways to stay out of the direct sunlight. Sitting in a shaded patio or finding a shade tree at the park will reduce the exposure to that intense heat. Always keep water with you in some form or another, the more hydrated the body the cooler you will feel. If you have to be outside on a hot summer day, limit your activities so you do not cause the body to overheat unnecessarily.