5 ways to beat the heat this summer
Beads of sweat are falling down your forehead as you squint through the beaming sunlight. With temperatures well over 90 degrees fahreinheit, you begin to feel the fatigue set. Before you faint from heat exhaustion, try these five ways to bring your body temperature down.
1. Drink plenty of fluids.
The news media always recommends this on days when it feels like Satan stopped by. They usually target pregnant women and the elderly, but that does not mean it will not help you. In fact, typically on days that are scorchers, your body increases the body’s use of fluids, meaning you will be getting dehydrated much sooner. Keep bottles of water in the fridge so you can take them to go. If you know you will be out for long in the car, freeze a bottle of water so it stays cold throughout the day. As it melts in the heat, you will enjoy the ice cold drink without feeling like you are drinking soup.
2. Skip the alcohol.
Beer, wine and other alcohol, though they can be refreshing cold beverages, are not efficient for your body. In addition to increasing the feeling of being warm, you actually dehydrate your body by drinking.
3. Take a dip.
Go to a friend’s swimming pool, your local beach or step in your tub for a cool bath. Simply wading in cool water can give you the relief you need, at least temporarily.
4. Get a handheld fan spray.
You can buy these at discount stores. They are simply spray bottles with the blades of a fan attached at the nozzle. As you spray the water onto yourself, the blades turn to give you a slight breeze. These little inventions are great when you are at the beach, or picnic and need something to cool off with.
5. Aim to spend time outdoors at dusk.
There will be an astounding difference in the outdoor temperature when you decide to change spending your time in the afternoon to the evening. The sun is a major contributer to heat and humidity, and typically by the time sunset occurs, there will be a significant temperature reduction. Without the worry of the rampant sunlight, it will be less sunscreen you need as well as less anxiety over the direct heat.
