No joke it’s been HOT this Summer and we’re just moving into August! Here are some Summer cool downs to help you get to September.
1. Drink lots and lots of water
Hydration is key when your body is trying to maintain homeostasis, or the regulated state (in this case, at a decent temperature). Sweating, though kind of unappealing sometimes, is your body’s way of cooling you down.
Contrary to popular belief, while iced water is your safest bet in cooling you down, things like pop or energy drinks will also help you cool down. Any liquid is better than no liquid.
Having said that, make sure you’re not drinking coffee, as it’s a diuretic and can have dehydrating effects.
2. Avoid the sun between 11am to 2pm
The sun is the hottest between 11am and 2pm, and sunburns are most likely to happen during that period. Limiting your exposure will limit your chances of overheating. If you can’t get around not being outside during those hours, make sure you dress appropriately.
3. Dress appropriately
Wear loose, breathable (think: cotton) clothing and footwear that won’t leave your feet sweaty. Hats are also crucial for blazing hot weather, keeping you cool by providing shade. Sunglasses will protect your eyes from damaging UV rays.
4. Refrigerate or freeze your bedsheets
Once you try this trick, you’ll wonder why you haven’t thought of it before. Place your bedsheets in your fridge or freezer for a half an hour before you sleep, and you’ll never have trouble falling asleep because of the heat again. Also consider investing in soft gel packs that you can place underneath your sheets, or tucked between your legs (wrapped in a tea towel).
5. Cool down your “hot zones”
Your pressure points are your secret key to happiness! Applying a little ice pack or a bottle filled with iced water will help you cool down immediately.
These pressure points are:
Ankles, Behind the knees. Wrists, Elbow bends, Neck, Temples.
6. Get spicy
Weird but true: spicy foods actually help you cool down. Spicy food increases your blood circulation, which in turn gets you sweaty. And, as we discussed before, sweating cools you down when the sweat cools down.
7. Eat a popsicle
It was the best way to cool down when you were a kid, and nothing has changed. Cool down by eating a popsicle!
8. Make a smoothie to cool down
Don’t feel like a popsicle? An ice-cold smoothie will bring your temperature right down, not only because of its chilly factor, but also because it’ll keep you hydrated.
9. Have more salads
How does a hot bowl of soup sound on this hot sunny day? Not so good? Choose chilled items for lunch instead. Salads are a great option, and you’ll also be feeling healthier than if you downed a burger for lunch.
STAY COOL!
