We're only into the second week of June, and there have been some very hot days in Wisconsin where I live. I rarely complain about the heat because spring and summer are my favorite seasons of the year, but like most people, I don't like to be uncomfortably hot.
Here are 10 secrets for staying cool and comfortable on sizzling summer days.
1) Put a towel in your tote bag. Many of us wear skirts and shorts in the summer. Sitting on a scorching hot outdoor chair or on a hot leather seat in your vehicle can be very uncomfortable. One way to combat this? Always have a towel in your tote bag. Before you sit, just lay down the towel.
2) Wear loose fitting clothing. Cotton is one of the best materials to wear to keep you cool on a hot day.
3) Store moisturizers and lotions in the fridge. It feels so good applying them at the end of the day.
4) Keep hydrated. Water is usually the best choice. But, if you're having a very active day (like if you're out hiking, biking or running), you may want to occasionally have a drink that is a source of electrolytes. Don't wait until you're thirsty. If you do, you may already be partially
hydrated. Keep sipping throughout the day. I always have a stainless steel water bottle with me. I fill it with ice and water...and it stays cold for a long time! Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
5) Head into an air conditioned place. Perhaps you have air conditioning at home...if so, you're all set to get cool. Otherwise, head to the mall, library, supermarket, movie theater, or anywhere that there is air conditioning.
6) Eat foods that will cool you off. Think salads, raw vegetables, and fresh fruit.
7) Opt for the outdoor grill instead of the oven. An indoor oven will make an uncomfortably warm home even warmer. Even if you have air conditioning at home, putting the oven on is counterproductive and energy-wasting. There are so many choices you can make on the outdoor grill that are not
typical choices, like burgers and hot dogs. Try making salmon, portabella mushrooms...even pizza.
8) Head for a shady area. The temperature will still be exactly the same, but the shade can make it feel 10 to 15 degrees cooler.
9) Wear a hat. The sunlight dumps a lot of heat onto your head. When venturing out on a super sunny day, wear a baseball cap or a beach hat. Don't want to wear a hat because you're afraid it will mess up your hair? Carry an umbrella to shield yourself from the intense rays of the sun.
10) Get your hair off your neck. If you have long hair like mine, in the summer when you sweat it's likely going to stick to your neck and be very annoying. Tie your hair into a ponytail or a braid and the problem is solved. Alternately, opt for a shorter haircut for the
season.
