Tips on Surviving the Summer Heat
With the weather finally reaching season-appropriate temperatures, it's no surprise that surviving the heat skyrockets to the top of our priority list - not only is it a matter of comfort, but a matter of preventing heat-related injuries or illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Though we want to enjoy ourselves in the hot summer sun, we must also be mindful of the potential harms that the season can bring if we're not careful.
So how do we cool down without being in a cold, air conditioned room 24/7? Stay put because we're here to share some easy + practical tips to help you and the whole family survive the heat all summer long!
ALWAYS STAY HYDRATED
We should be drinking about 8-10 glasses of water per day anyway, but this is especially important in the summer. Bring a thermal water bottle with you outdoors to keep your beverage cold, helping you to stay cool and hydrated longer.
WEAR COTTON + LIGHT COLOURS
Wearing materials that are lightweight and breathable like cotton promotes better comfort and airflow in the body; wearing light-coloured clothing reflects light, while dark-coloured clothing absorbs it making you feel more hot. Light-coloured cottons = a win/win!
So how do we cool down without being in a cold, air conditioned room 24/7? Stay put because we're here to share some easy + practical tips to help you and the whole family survive the heat all summer long!
ALWAYS STAY HYDRATED
We should be drinking about 8-10 glasses of water per day anyway, but this is especially important in the summer. Bring a thermal water bottle with you outdoors to keep your beverage cold, helping you to stay cool and hydrated longer.
WEAR COTTON + LIGHT COLOURS
Wearing materials that are lightweight and breathable like cotton promotes better comfort and airflow in the body; wearing light-coloured clothing reflects light, while dark-coloured clothing absorbs it making you feel more hot. Light-coloured cottons = a win/win!
LESSEN YOUR (HOT) CAFFEINE INTAKE
We all need our caffeine fix which is completely fine, but any amount over the standard moderate consumption can lead to dehydration. If you really need it, try switching your hot caffeine beverage with an iced version to avoid being too warm.
CHOOSE WATER-RICH FRUITS + VEGGIES
SPEND SOME OF YOUR TIME INDOORS
If the temperature hits record-highs or becomes generally intolerable, it may be best to avoid direct sun-contact and stay indoors; this doesn't necessarily mean staying inside the comfort of your home (though you definitely can if you choose to) but in public areas/facilities with air-conditioning such as shopping malls, libraries, or movie theatres.
With these quick tips, you'll find it easier to enjoy the summer heat feeling hydrated and cool with less discomfort in no time. Remember, we'll be here for you every step of the way, all season and beyond!
We all need our caffeine fix which is completely fine, but any amount over the standard moderate consumption can lead to dehydration. If you really need it, try switching your hot caffeine beverage with an iced version to avoid being too warm.
EXERCISE DURING THE DAY OR EVENING
Try to take advantage of the coolest times of the day (morning + evening) versus the peak, hottest times (the afternoon); this is especially important if you take your exercising outdoors. If you're unable to alter your workout schedule, pace yourself and slow down your level of exertion, taking frequent water breaks in between.
Try to take advantage of the coolest times of the day (morning + evening) versus the peak, hottest times (the afternoon); this is especially important if you take your exercising outdoors. If you're unable to alter your workout schedule, pace yourself and slow down your level of exertion, taking frequent water breaks in between.
TURN DOWN THE HEAT DURING SHOWERS/BATHS
Though hot showers/baths are great for a handful of reasons during the winter/flu season, it can nonetheless lead to dry, itchy, and inflammed skin. Switching over to (or alternating between) colder, lukewarm water temperatures is proven to be especially beneficial during hot weather - it can calm inflamed skin, increase your blood circulation, and lower your body temperature when you sweat.
Though hot showers/baths are great for a handful of reasons during the winter/flu season, it can nonetheless lead to dry, itchy, and inflammed skin. Switching over to (or alternating between) colder, lukewarm water temperatures is proven to be especially beneficial during hot weather - it can calm inflamed skin, increase your blood circulation, and lower your body temperature when you sweat.
CHOOSE WATER-RICH FRUITS + VEGGIES
It's good to substitute hot meals/food that essentially promote heat once in awhile with fruits and vegetables that are rich in water (watermelon, peaches, cucumber, lettuce, etc). They not only have a cooling effect on your body but are delicious and healthy! Throw them into a salad and you'll be good to go.
SPEND SOME OF YOUR TIME INDOORS
If the temperature hits record-highs or becomes generally intolerable, it may be best to avoid direct sun-contact and stay indoors; this doesn't necessarily mean staying inside the comfort of your home (though you definitely can if you choose to) but in public areas/facilities with air-conditioning such as shopping malls, libraries, or movie theatres.
With these quick tips, you'll find it easier to enjoy the summer heat feeling hydrated and cool with less discomfort in no time. Remember, we'll be here for you every step of the way, all season and beyond!