Summers are fun, when you’re out for a drive, jamming on the Beatles’ ‘Here Comes the Sun’, until the heat cranks up, your car starts to boil, and all of a sudden it feels like you’re sitting in an oven. This is when staying cool and comfy becomes necessary. Heat waves can be uncomfortable, turning our everyday activities into a big, sweaty challenge. Whether you’re at home, at work, or out for some simple errand, a heat wave can drain your energy. But don’t worry, because even if it’s the middle of June and heatwaves are faking you out, these 10 simple ways to stay cool and comfortable can save your day.
1-Hydrate Like Your Life Depends on It – Because It Does
Keep in mind that when you sweat, your body loses fluids and electrolytes. This can lead to dehydration. So, when you’re sweating like crazy, water comes to the rescue. You don’t need to wait to feel thirsty to drink water. Have at least 8 glasses of water a day. Try summer drinks with cucumbers, mint, or lemon to keep you fresh and hydrated throughout the day. Here are some hydrating liquids that will help you replenish your fluids and electrolytes:
Coconut Water
Being naturally rich in potassium, coconut water makes a good choice for rehydration, especially after exercise.
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks, also known as electrolyte drinks, are specifically designed to replenish the lost electrolytes through sweat during exercise. They are rich in carbohydrates and electrolytes like potassium and sodium. I am going to suggest you some good sports drinks that you must have to keep your electrolytes at a reasonable level:
1- Gatorade is a number 1 choice for people who like to go for a jog or a run. You can get a packet here.
2- LMNT Sparkling Electrolyte Drink comes in different flavors as well, get it here.
3- GU Energy Gel, people appreciate the energy gel’s variety of flavors and its effectiveness as an instant energy source for high-intensity activities, you can buy it here.
Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS)
Oral rehydration solutions are a balanced mix of salts and glucose, which is ideal for dehydration during intense heat waves. Get zero sugar ORS here.
2-Keep Your Blinds and Curtains Closed
Opening windows to let the air in is not a good option during a heat wave. Remember, the warm air carries the heat with it that would soon turn your house into a toaster. Make sure to close all blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day. Use day and night blinds that allow the sunlight in while keeping the heat out.
3-Use Fans and Air-Conditioners
When summer turns the heat up, shutting the blinds may not be enough. To keep your indoor spaces cool, use ceiling fans and air conditioners. Ceiling fans help circulate the air, creating a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler. Point your fans toward the windows to keep the hot air out. Carry portable hand fans with you when you’re out.
4-Freeze Your Clothes – Trust Me It Helps!
We know that all that heat and sweat make it impossible to sleep at night. Instead of spending your nights shifting sides in bed, use this hack that will help you sleep like a baby. Throw your bedtime clothes, pillowcase, or sheets into a freezer for 15-20 minutes before bedtime. I know it sounds odd, but once you try this hack, there is no going back!
5-Cold Showers – The Fastest Way to Beat the Heat
Do you also feel awake and energized soon after a cold shower? Like someone has pressed a refresh button? That’s because the cold water improves your blood circulation, which instantly cools your skin and provides relief from that sluggish summer feeling. During the heatwave, the best way to get your body temperature down to normal is with a cold shower. Sweat may leave you feeling hot and sticky, but one cold shower is gonna wash it all away.
6-Replace Old Bulbs with Cool LEDs
Can’t figure out why your home is still burning with heat, despite using fans and air cons? Try replacing your hot incandescent bulbs with LED lights or energy-saving bulbs. You might not know, but traditional incandescent bulbs release 90% of the energy they consume, as heat. This would keep you sweating and force your fans and air conditioners to work overtime. Don’t forget the bills you’ll have to pay! Instead of this mini heater, use LED bulbs that use less energy and produce minimal heat.
7-Chase the Shade – Not the Sun
Spending time in shaded areas gives your body a break from direct sunlight. When you’re out during a heatwave, try shade-hopping or take breaks in air-conditioned spaces. This would make your outdoor time much bearable. Stay under trees and awnings as much as you can. Always carry a foldable umbrella or hat.
8-Use Cooling Lotions and Sprays
When the heat becomes unbearable, try using cooling lotions and sprays. These products contain ingredients like menthol, aloe vera, or cucumber extracts that are known for their soothing effect. They instantly cool down your skin and help reduce redness and inflammation. Always carry a spray bottle with you and spritz your face, neck, or arms for quick relief.
9-Noon to 4 – Best Time to Become a Homebody
Time between 12 pm and 4 pm is considered the hottest part of the day. During this time, the sun is at its fiercest. If you want to protect yourself from the heatwave, try staying indoors during these peak hours. Get all your errands done either early in the morning or after sunset. If you need to go out during the peak hours, take necessary measures to minimize direct sun exposure.
10-Dress Easy – Clothes That Breathe
Don’t wanna give up black clothes or tight jeans because that’s your style? I hate to break it to you, but you have to! Dark and tight clothing traps heat like a greenhouse, making you itchy and uncomfortable during the warm days. Go breezy style. Wear loose, light-colored clothes made out of breathable fabric like cotton or linen that would keep your body cool. Dress like you’re on a beach vacation, the less the better!
Nobody Wants to Melt Like a Popsicle!
Heat waves are far more serious than just being uncomfortable. As they get more frequent and intense, it’s important to learn how to protect your health by staying cool.
A widely cited study found:
- 25% increase in the number of annual heat waves in the Chicago region.
- 31% increase in heat waves in Paris.
According to these findings, future heat waves are expected to last longer and be more intense.
This confirms the urgent need to adopt necessary measures like hydration, improving indoor conditions, and shade-seeking to reduce the risks of heat-related illnesses. Did you know that extreme exposure to sunlight can also lead to brain damage? The tips shared in this article may seem simple, but their consistent practice can significantly reduce the health risks during extreme heat.
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