Summer has already arrived and undoubtedly there are a lot of uncomfortable people trying to enjoy the sun. For me, being uncomfortable is part of the summer routine, especially when you live in Alabama. The air is sticky, and the mercury is always busting out of the thermometer. But, the good thing is I am somewhat of an expert when it comes to trying to stay cool. I have been at it for years! Here are 5 tips for staying cool this summer.
1. Get An Air Conditioning Unit
HVAC units are the only real tool you have at your disposal to keep cool, which is why you need to choose wisely. The right air conditioner will turn your home from a sauna into a freezer. When the temperature becomes unbearable, you always need a place to get away from the heat and relax. Plus, you can moderate the temperature, so you are not too hot or too cold.
2. Wear Light Clothing
The light clothing tip sounds like a myth, but it is actual science. Dark, matte surfaces absorb the sun’s UV rays and make you hotter as a result. But, light, shiny clothes will reflect the very UV rays that increase your body temperature and make you cooler. You might not be able to tell the difference because it won’t make you feel considerably cooler. But, trust that it does work and the little things make a big difference in the end. If you don’t trust me, trust science!
3. Change Your Summer Hair Do
Long hair is not conducive to the summer heat. The longer your hair, the hotter you will feel because it keeps the heat in when you want to let the heat out. Your head is the hottest part of your body and where most heat tries to escape. Stop forcing it to stay and take the plunge. The right short haircut will make your cooler and still look great!
4. Eat Cooler
A couple of frozen treats go a long way in the summer. Once they enter your body, the cold starts to work its magic. Even if you don’t like frozen food, you can always put them on your head and cool down that way.
5. Relax
Physical activity is always going to make your hotter. It gets the blood pumping and warms the muscles and vital organs. So, during the hottest time of the day, you want to relax as much as possible. I don’t just mean not going to gym, by the way. I mean taking your time with everything you do. If you are walking, walk a bit slower than usual. The rise in temperatures will turn the least active activities into a sweat-filled nightmare!
6. Choose Cotton
Have a look around your home and see what’s cotton and what is not cotton. Your bed sheets, cushions, pillowcases, etc. will make you hotter if they not the right material. Cotton is the coolest material for the home because it is the thinnest and the lightest. Stay away wool or heavy duty material.