Ah yeah, the HEAT is here … as much as we love the summer, sun, and warm temperatures, if it gets too hot, we just can´t function right. The good thing is there are some genius hacks to keep cool during the heat! Find here the ultimate guide on how to cool down during the hot months!
How to Cool Down Hack 1. Stay Hydrated, Stay Cool
Drink Water Regularly: Aim for at least 8 glasses a day, even if you’re not feeling thirsty. Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially in high heat!
Add a splash of lemon, mint, or cucumber for a refreshing twist that makes drinking water more enjoyable.
If you carry an insulated refillable water bottle with you, you ALWAYS have your water at hand. A Stanley Cup, for example, can even keep your water cool for hours!
Cold Snacks: You can cool down from the inside out. Keep a stash of popsicles, frozen grapes, and chilled watermelon in the fridge. These snacks not only hydrate but also help to lower your internal temperature. Plus, they’re a fun way to beat the heat!
How to Cool Down Hack 2. Cool Your Space
Fans and AC: Use fans to circulate air and create a breeze. If you have an air conditioner, set it to a comfortable temperature, but avoid setting it too low to save energy. Portable fans can be moved around to where you need them most. You can use a small one like this to cool down at your desk!
Block the Sun: Close curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day to prevent the sun’s heat from warming up your home. Consider using thermal or blackout curtains for maximum effectiveness.
DIY Air Conditioner: Create a makeshift air conditioner by placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan. As the ice melts, the fan blows cool air into the room, providing instant relief. This is a great hack to cool down your room!
How to Cool Down Hack 3. Dress Smart
Lightweight Fabrics: Opt for loose, light-colored, and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. These materials allow air to circulate and wick away sweat, keeping you cooler.
Wide-Brimmed Hats and Sunglasses: Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck from the sun when heading outside. Sunglasses with UV protection are also essential to protect your eyes from harmful rays.
How to Cool Down Hack 4. Cool Your Body
Cold Showers: Take a cool shower or bath to lower your body temperature. Start with lukewarm water and gradually cool it to a more comfortable temperature.
Cool Compress: Apply a damp, cold cloth to pulse points like wrists, neck, and forehead. These areas have blood vessels close to the skin, so cooling them helps lower your overall body temperature.
Misting Sprays: Use a spray bottle filled with water to mist your face and body. For an extra cooling effect, store the bottle in the fridge.
How to Cool Down Hack 5. Stay Indoors During Peak Heat
Plan Activities: Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid strenuous activities during the midday heat.
Seek Shade: If you need to be outside, find shaded areas or use umbrellas to protect yourself from direct sunlight. Rest frequently to avoid overheating.
How to Cool Down Hack 6. Eat Light
Small, Frequent Meals: Opt for smaller, more frequent meals rather than large, heavy ones. Digesting big meals can generate metabolic heat and make you feel sluggish.
Cold Foods: Choose salads, fruits, and yogurt over hot and heavy dishes. Cold foods are not only refreshing but also easier to digest, helping to keep you cool.
How to Cool Down Hack 7. Stay Informed
Weather Updates: Monitor local weather forecasts to stay ahead of extreme heat advisories. Knowing when to expect high temperatures allows you to plan accordingly.
Know the Signs: Be aware of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Symptoms include excessive sweating, dizziness, nausea, and rapid heartbeat. Seek medical attention if you or someone else shows these signs.
How to Cool Down Hack 8. Create a Cool Sleeping Environment
Breathable Bedding: Use lightweight and breathable sheets from natural fibers like cotton. These materials help wick away sweat and keep you cool throughout the night.
Frozen Pillowcases: Put pillowcases in the freezer for a few minutes before bed. This simple trick can make a big difference in helping you fall asleep in the heat.
Elevate Your Feet: Use a small pillow to keep your feet elevated. This promotes better circulation and can help lower your body temperature.
How to Cool Down Hack 9. Exercise Wisely
Stay Cool During Workouts: Exercise indoors or early morning/evening to avoid the peak heat. Hydrate before, during, and after your workout to replace fluids lost through sweat.
Cool Down: Take frequent breaks in a shaded or air-conditioned area. Incorporate low-intensity activities like stretching or yoga to stay active without overheating.
Essential Cool-Down Kit
There are some things you should carry with you in the heat that can help you cool down:
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated on the go.
- Portable Fan: Keep cool wherever you are.
- Wide-brimmed Hat: Protect yourself from the sun.
- Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from UV rays.
- Cooling Towel: Instant relief from the heat.
- Misting Spray Bottle: Quick and refreshing spritz.
- Lightweight Clothing: Breathable fabrics to stay cool.
- Ice Packs: For instant cooling on pulse points.
- Chilled Snacks: Popsicles, frozen grapes, and watermelon.
- Sunblock: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Take Away
It is just SO important to take care of yourself in the heat! Your health and even life can depend on it. By sticking to those simple hacks mentioned above, you´ve already taken a great step toward cooling down!