10 Cool Ways To Beat The Heat This Summer
As the temperature rises outside, it can be a challenge to keep your cool. Not only can hot weather make you feel uncomfortable, it can cause heat related conditions, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. You are probably aware of the usual ways to manage summertime heat, such as cranking up the air conditioning, drinking plenty of fluids and going for a dip in the pool. In addition to those ideas, try some of the cool and unique ways below to beat the heat.
Keep Facial Products In The Refrigerator
Splashing your face with some cold water and applying a little eye cream and facial moisturizer can take the edge off the heat on a blistering day. Applying chilled products provides even more relief. Store your facial products, such as toners, lotions, moisturizers and eye cream in the refrigerator so they will be cold before you apply them. In addition, look for products which contain aloe and cucumber, both of which have a cooling effect on the skin.
Go Ice Skating
It may traditionally be considered a winter sport, but ice skating may be the perfect activity for a scorching summer day. Many cities have indoor ice skating rinks open year round. Not only is ice skating a quick way to cool down, you’ll get some exercise in the process.
Use Peppermint
Peppermint is a not just for keeping your breath fresh. It has a natural cooling effect on the body. Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to a tepid bath to wash away the heat. Also, try rubbing peppermint lotion on your skin and immediately you should feel a little cooler and more energized. (For more fun facts on peppermint, read 10 Refreshing Health Benefits Of Peppermint.)
Lounge In A Kiddie Pool
If you don’t have a backyard swimming pool and your local public pool sounds less than appealing, don’t sweat it. You can still stay cool by chilling out in a kiddie pool. There are a variety of size kiddie pools to choose from. Just add water, grab a good book and sit back and relax.
Tie One On
Hot weather does not mean you can’t enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking. One easy way to prevent overheating is by soaking a bandana in ice water and tying it around your neck. Cooling bandanas are also an option. The bandanas have crystals inside them, which keep it cold for several hours after it is wet. Cooling hats and vests are also available.
Use A Homemade Air Conditioner
If you don’t have an air conditioner or yours is on the fritz, you can still stay cool at home. You can make a simple homemade air conditioner without a degree in electrical engineering. Fill the largest bowl you can find with ice and place it in front of a fan and presto, you have cool air.
Dress Light
Did you ever notice how much cooler you feel when you take off your shoes after a long day? If possible, switch your regular shoes for a pair of sandals, which let your feet breathe. Better yet, go barefoot when you can. In addition to choosing the right shoes to cool you off, wearing clothing made of fabrics, such as cotton and linen can also help your skin breathe and stay cool. Opt for light colors, which absorb less heat from the sun.
Chill Your Bedding
It can be difficult to sleep well on a hot, sticky night. Keeping you bedroom cool can help. In addition, consider chilling your bedding. Put a bed sheet and pillowcase in a bag and place it in the refrigerator a few hours before going to bed. Special pillows are also manufactured that have a gel insert inside in order to keep your head cool while sleeping.
Dab Pulse Points
Chilling your pulse points, such as the inside of your wrists and the back of your knees, can make you feel cooler instantly. Dab pressure points with some ice or a cold compress. Running cold water over your wrists for a few minutes may also help you get some relief from the heat.
Go Extreme
If you’re looking for a fun way to beat the heat, it might be the right time to try an extreme sport. Consider trying something different, such as going caving. Temperatures in a cave may be 20 degrees cooler. Other extreme options to cool off include indoor sky diving, go kart racing and mountain biking. Besides the wind in your hair and cooler temperatures, the adrenaline rush will make you forget the heat.
When the sun is blazing, and the temperature is climbing, staying cool is a priority. Along with some common sense and a cool drink, a little creativity may be all it takes. When all else fails, remember “this too shall pass”. Before you known it, you’ll be shivering and trying to find ways to stay warm all winter.
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About MaryAnn DePietro MaryAnn De Pietro has been a professional writer since 2000. Her health and medical articles have appeared in print publications and websites, such as the Sacramento Bee, Listen Magazine, Livestrong.com and Patch.com. MaryAnn is a graduate of Penn State University with a degree in rehabilitation and also from American River College in Sacramento with a degree in respiratory therapy. She is licensed by the state of California as a respiratory therapist. When not working, Mary Ann loves all types of fitness activities including running, and playing golf and tennis. Mary Ann is excited to contribute to SymptomFind.com and share her medical, health and fitness knowledge.
