There are a few simple things we can do to look after ourselves and others to stay healthy and happy during the hot days we have coming up throughout July and August.
Turn off the lights in your home.
Light bulbs produce heat when they are switched on, to keep temperatures down only use your lights when necessary. You can also unplug any lamps or electronic devices that you aren’t using. Sometimes, even electronics in standby mode can be warm because they’re drawing electricity from the outlet. This can also save on your utility bills.
Keep your windows closed during the day.
While it may seem counterproductive, having the windows open lets the hot air from outside into the home. As soon as the sun comes up, close and lock the windows to keep the cooler air trapped in your home.
Block the windows with sun shades or curtains.
Hang up blackout curtains or place a car sun shade in the window during the day. As soon as the sun is up, close the curtains completely or unroll the sunshade to keep the sunshine from heating your home.
Open your windows and use fans to amplify a breeze at night.
Once the sun goes down, set up a large fan in front of an open window to blow cooler air into the room. If you have a ceiling fan, turn it on to circulate the air throughout the room. If it’s an extremely warm night, spritz yourself with cold water from a water bottle and stand in front of the fan before going to sleep. This can cool down your body temperature immensely and help you get to sleep.
Do indoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
From 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., the temperatures outside can be sweltering. To keep cool and avoid the harsh sun, stay indoors or go to a location that has air conditioning if you don’t have it at your home. For example, if you want a low-cost activity, you can plan to study at the library, or go for a walk in the mall. If you want a fun activity to do with friends you can plan to have lunch with friends in a restaurant, go to a museum, or see a movie.
Wear lightweight and light-coloured clothing to keep your body cool.
Lightweight clothes in a lighter colour, like white, pale blue, light tan, light pink, and pale yellow, are the best choice when you’re trying to keep cool. If you’re at the beach or at home, you can wear less clothing, like tank tops and shorts or a bathing suit. If you’re running errands or going to work, wear clothes made of light materials like linen, cotton, silk, or other breathable fabrics. When you’re trying on clothes, aim for styles that have looser, flowy cuts, which can keep your body cooler and less restricted.
Drink what your body needs - listen to your intuition
Drink water sip by sip with a calm mind. Don’t be in a hurry while drinking water. Don’t gulp huge amount of water instantly. You should enjoy drinking water as you enjoy eating other foods. Drink water when you feel thirsty. Drink it slowly and tasting it in your mouth. Check if thirst goes away. Stop when you no longer feel any thirst. It is the right and adequate amount of water that you should drink.
Avoid caffeine and sugary beverages.
Drinks like coffee, tea, and soda can make you slightly dehydrated when you drink them. Try to limit yourself to 1 caffeinated or sugary beverage per day, and focus on drinking water before and after you have caffeine or sugar.
And don't forget of course, to have some fun! x
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