After a long, cold winter, everyone is excited to get outside and enjoy warm, sunny days. However, we know that humidity and high heat can also serve to keep us indoors in order to stay cool.
Rather than stay cooped up next to the air conditioner, try these five ways to stay cool in the summer:
- Take Cool Showers – Most of us like a hot shower, letting the water drip down our backs and take away aches and pains. In the summer, however, using cooler water temperatures can help keep your body temperature down. You might also find that taking several cooler showers keeps you refreshed.
- Drink Lots of Water –There’s nothing better than staying hydrated with good, old water. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty, instead, drink water throughout the day. Carry a bottle of water with you and sip it regularly. Don’t wait till you feel thirsty – that means you are already on your way to dehydration. Avoid alcohol if you think you’re dehydrated and consumer coffee and sugary drinks sparingly. Not only is water important to avoid dehydration, adequate amounts of water are good for your skin, weight and overall health.
- Dress For It –Just as you would layer and wear heavy clothes in the winter, summer has it’s appropriate style as well. Wear loose clothing in light colors and fabrics. Darker colors absorb the heat while cooler colors will reflect it. Natural fabrics such as cotton, linen and rayon will also keep you cooler.
- Eat Lighter Meals –Eat 5-6 smaller meals throughout the day. Consumer foods like salads, fresh fruit, light sandwiches and healthy snacks like almonds. Avoid heavy, greasy foods and very salty foods.
- Adjust your activity –If you normally take a walk on your lunch hour, you may want to adjust your schedule so that you exercise in the morning or evening after the hottest part of the day. If you have a backyard swimming pool, take a dip before or after work. Not only will you wash away the heat of the day, but the exercise and fun will do you good.
Of course, when you can, splash in your pool, rest in the shade under your patio umbrella, or simply sit in the shade under a tree and relax.
