Keeping it Cool – Summer Tips for 2023

Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the promise of fun in the sun, lazy days by the pool, and countless other activities. However, the heat can also pose a risk to our health and well-being, so it’s important to take steps to stay cool and comfortable during the summer months. 

Here are some tips for keeping it cool in the summer:

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

We can’t stress this enough: staying hydrated is essential for maintaining our body’s functions, especially during hot summer months! Dehydration is no joke, because when our body is losing more fluids than it’s taking in, our body’s normal functions are disrupted. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial, and if you engage in any physical activity, don’t forget to drink water or even sports drinks or electrolyte supplements. 

Another helpful tip: you can set alarms to remind you to drink water! In fact, there are even apps that help remind you to do so.

Dress Appropriately:

When it comes to staying cool during the summer, choosing the right clothing can make a significant difference. Wearing loose-fitting, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen can help keep you cool by allowing air to circulate around your body. These types of fabrics are also absorbent, which means they can help wick away moisture from your skin, keeping you comfortable and dry. In contrast, tight-fitting clothes made of synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester can trap heat and moisture, making you feel hotter and sweatier.

In addition to choosing the right fabric, wearing light-colored clothing is also important. Light colors such as white, pastels, and other light shades reflect the sun’s rays, helping to keep you cooler. In contrast, dark colors like black, navy, and brown absorb more heat and can make you feel warmer.

Protect Yourself From The Sun

While wearing a hat and sunglasses can help protect your face and eyes from the sun, using an umbrella can provide additional shade and help prevent heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. It’s a good idea to carry a compact umbrella in your bag or car, so you’re always prepared for unexpected sun exposure.

It’s also crucial to apply sunscreen regularly to any exposed skin. Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended, and it should be reapplied every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Sunscreen not only helps prevent sunburn, but it also protects your skin from the harmful UV rays.

Cool Down Your Home:

Keeping your living space cool and comfortable during hot summer months is crucial to maintaining a healthy and enjoyable living environment. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is to ensure that your home has good air circulation. This is something that can be done by opening up windows where wind can pass through, or setting up electric fans strategically around the house. If you have an air conditioning system, make sure it is working efficiently by scheduling a maintenance check and cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly. Faulty air conditioners can rack up quite the electric bill, so investing in their maintenance will save more in the long run.

Blocking out the sun’s heat is another effective way to keep your living space cool. During the hottest parts of the day, close curtains or blinds to prevent sunlight from entering your home. This will reduce the amount of heat that enters your living space, making it cooler and more comfortable. You can also open windows at night to let cooler air in and reduce your reliance on air conditioning. 

Eat Cooling and Refreshing Food

One of the best parts of summer is enjoying delicious food and refreshing drinks that help beat the heat. When it comes to staying hydrated and refreshed during the summer, there are many tasty and healthy options to consider. Fresh fruit juices, smoothies, and iced tea are great choices for staying cool and hydrated. If you’re a coffee lover, you can enjoy iced coffee or make a refreshing dessert (try this easy coffee jelly recipe).  

Have Fun With Water-based Activities

During the hot summer months, water-based activities are an excellent way to stay cool and refreshed. Swimming is a popular option that can be enjoyed at a pool or beach. Not only does swimming cool you down, but it is also a great form of exercise that can help you stay active and healthy. For those who don’t have access to a pool or beach, you can still enjoy water-based activities by setting up a sprinkler or water slide in your yard. These fun and inexpensive options provide a great way to cool off and have fun with friends and family.

Taking a shower or bath in cool water is another effective way to lower your body temperature and stay refreshed. A cool shower or bath can help reduce the heat and humidity, providing a soothing and relaxing experience. For an extra refreshing boost, try adding some mint or eucalyptus essential oils to your bathwater to create a cooling sensation.

Stay Out of the Heat

When it comes to staying cool during the summer, prevention is key. One of the most effective ways to stay cool is to avoid the heat as much as possible. If you need to be outside, plan your activities for early morning or evening when the temperature is cooler. These times of the day are also less humid, making them ideal for outdoor activities. 

If you must be outside during the hottest parts of the day, make sure to take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces. This will help your body cool down and prevent heat exhaustion or dehydration. Wearing a hat and lightweight clothing can also help protect your skin and keep you cool. 

It’s also important to avoid engaging in strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. Strenuous activities can increase your body temperature and make it harder for you to cool down. Instead, opt for light exercise such as walking or yoga during cooler times of the day.

There are a lot of little things you can do that make a big difference when you want to stay cool even on the hottest days of the year! These tips will help you enjoy all the fun and excitement that summer has to offer while staying cool and comfortable.