7 Simple Ways To Beat The Summer Heat

Maggie Williams Author

Are you looking for relief from the scorching heat? Here are 7 simple ways to cool down so you can enjoy your summer.

Regardless of where you live, chances are that at some point you may experience hot weather that can be pretty uncomfortable if you're not prepared.

The summer heat can be responsible for minor things like a headache, nausea, or mild sunburn or more serious things like heat stroke or a seizure.

Here are 7 ways to beat the summer heat.

1. Don't wait to hydrate. Don't wait until you're thirsty to think about getting something to drink. Well before you leave the house, drink plenty of water, and pack a cooler to take with you.

If you're doing strenuous work or exercise outdoors, consider a drink with electrolytes to replenish your body's fluids. The best ones should contain essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium.

Check out my YouTube video where I make an electrolyte drink that's healthy and cost pennies. There are no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives, or sugar.  

2. Eat plenty of foods with a high water content. Some of the best are 90% water by weight or higher like cucumbers, lettuce, celery, tomatoes, zucchini, watermelon, and strawberries. Choose your favorites, and pack them in a cooler.

They are sure to quench your thirst, and satisfy your taste buds. Fresh fruits and vegetables in season are a great way to stay hydrated, help you stay cool, and boost your energy.

3. Time your outdoor activities correctly. Plan to do your outside work and exercise early in the day while it's cooler or late in the evening when the sun goes down.

When possible, avoid strenuous work in the heat of the day. Try to pace yourself and seek shade when you can.

4. Bring items to help you cool off. Keep ice packs and cold compresses handy to bring your temperature down. Running water on your wrist, forehead, and the backs of your legs will help too.

I wear a rechargeable neck fan when I garden that feels amazing and  blows a nice breeze that helps keep the mosquitos away from my face. Pour cool water on a wash cloth, wring it out loosely, and put in around your neck for quick relief.

5. Keep your head covered. Another way to reduce the sun's rays is by using a sun blocking umbrella. I bought my husband this one for when he's playing golf, and it provides UV protection.

Cooling sun hats are another way to keep your head cool. Wearing a wide brim hat with breathable mesh fabric allows air to circulate. The temperature can feel 10-15 degrees cooler in the shade, so keep an eye out for shelter to get away from the direct sun.

6. Wear fabrics that breathe. Choose clothing made from natural fibers like organic cotton, linen, and some bamboo and rayon. Wear loose weave garments that are light in color to allow air to flow. 

Avoid tight-fitting, dark, heavy clothing like denim, and ladies, ditch the clinging yoga pants which trap moisture and can lead to female problems.

7. Limit dehydrating beverages. Excessive caffeine and alcohol drinks can deplete your body of necessary fluids. They can keep you from being able to sweat and cool down.

Avoid drinking sugary beverages as well because they can leave you dehydrated. They're often loaded with unhealthy artificial flavors and colors and won't supply the nutrients that you need.

IN CONCLUSION

Planning ahead is the key to staying safe and avoiding a heat related injury. Have an emergency strategy for when the unexpected happens like your car breaking down on the highway or you're outdoors in the hot sun longer than you planned. 

If you're going to be outdoors alone, make sure to keep your phone handy, and ask friends or family to check on you regularly. If you're light-headed, it's time to stop what you're doing.

Don't wait until you're exhausted before coming inside. You may be putting yourself in a dangerous situation.

Whether you're in a stadium watching a ball game or working in your yard, take the necessary steps to protect yourself, so you can stay healthy and safe.

What are your favorite strategies for handling the heat?