Summer is a favorite season for lovers of warm, bright days. But too much of anything can be a bad thing, so we’ve compiled some ways to keep your body in the comfort zone when warm turns to hot.
Hydration
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. If you’re drinking lots of water but still feel parched, try adding an electrolyte-infused beverage. Electrolytes will help you retain water so you can stay hydrated for longer. Beverages to avoid are anything containing alcohol. Alcohol is a diuretic and will dehydrate you despite its often frosty-cold presentation.
Beach Attire
You don’t have to be at the beach to adopt the wisdom of its wear. Those almost white, flowing beach ensembles you see in magazines aren’t just creating an air of effortless elegance – they’re also keeping their wearer cool. The light colors reflect heat, while the loose silhouettes allow for plenty of airflow. If you don’t want to go full-on beach mode, try pairing a white tank top with some denim shorts. Natural fabrics like linen and cotton are good choices because they’re breathable. Avoid dark colors, which absorb heat, and synthetic fabrics, which dont allow your skin to breathe.
Shade
Bright, cheerful sunlight makes us happy and gives us critical doses of Vitamin D, but too much exposure to direct sunlight is not good for anyone. You’ll stay cooler if you shield yourself from the sun. Wearing a hat will protect your face, head, and neck from direct sunlight. If you’ll be outdoors for an extended period of time, consider bringing along an umbrella or a portable shelter. If you are spending time outdoors at home, consider installing exterior home shades on porches and patios to help create shady areas to relax in. These types of shades are also retractable, so they can be pulled away when not in use.
Cooling
There are several ways to physically cool down your body if you start to feel too warm. Splash some water on your face or take a dip in a pool. Try to find a place to lie down if you’re feeling overheated, out of the sun as much as possible. If you have access to ice, hold some against the back of your neck and head to keep your head and brain cool. Drink lots of fluids, especially if you’re sweating a lot. And finally, try not to get too stressed out – emotional stress can make you feel warmer.
Relaxation
If you have physical tasks that need to be done, try scheduling them for the cooler times of the day – early morning or evening. If that’s not possible, try to take frequent breaks in the shade to give your body a chance to cool down. And when all else fails, just slow down. Our bodies naturally cool themselves by sweating, but if we’re exerting ourselves too much, we might sweat more than our bodies can handle. So, if you’re feeling too hot, just slow down and take it easy until the temperature drops.
Summertime is a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy the warm weather. But it’s important to stay safe and comfortable in the heat. By following these tips, you can make sure you stay cool all summer long.