It’s the wrong kind of hot and bothered. Stop the infernal weather from getting under your sweaty skin with these 8 ways to stay cool during a heatwave.
Scarfsicle.
Take a damp handkerchief (moist, not wet) and pop in the freezer overnight. Slip it in a waterproof bag before slipping out into the heat of the day. When you start to feel those beads of sweat creeping to the surface, grab it and tie it around your neck. You and your goose pimples will be the envy of everyone.
Get Spicy.
Why fight the sweat? Sweat is the body’s natural way of cooling off your skin so bring it on by chowing down on some super spicy cuisine. It’s no coincidence that the hottest food comes from the hottest places on earth. We’re thinking Indian, Mexican or maybe Thai…
Water Wonderland.
Everyone knows that drinking water is key to staying hydrated during a heatwave but it doesn’t need to be boring. Keep your water wonderful with a battery of icy flavours. Freeze your ice cubes with chopped fresh mint, cucumber, strawberries, lime or any fresh flavour you fancy and pop them into your water bottle before you head out. As the cubes melt, your water will get tastier and more refreshing. We know it’s delicious but remember to sip not gulp for a more sustainable chill.
Go Natural.
You can take this one of two ways and either way should help you keep cool. In the privacy of your own home, why not strip it all down and take on the heat in the buff? Too risque for you? If you must dress, select natural fabrics like cotton or bamboo and styles that are loose for max airflow. Synthetic fabrics don’t allow the skin to breathe properly and can make you feel hotter than you need to. Plus, have you smelt your sweaty self in polyester? Sorry, it had to be said.
Nibble.
Keep meals light when the heat is on. Big, heavy meals can warm us up and slow us down as our metabolism kicks into high gear trying to break them down. Think plant-based, small nibbles and you’ll discover that your body will stay cool and your energy level will stay even too.
Spritz-a-palooza.
We can’t run for the shower every time the heat gets unbearable but we can give ourselves a little spritz of refreshment. Try a natural rose water spray on your face and neck to help cool things down. It’s doing the same job sweat does to cool the skin but it smells way better. And, it’s especially delightful if you’ve been in the sun.
Cold Feet.
Here’s one that you can use at work when the heat is keeping you from getting things done. Grab two small ice packs and two pairs of wool socks. No, we’re not crazy. Slide the ice pack between the two socks and slip your feet into chilled bliss. Best to keep this secret under the desk because walking around with bulging wool socks during a heatwave might turn a few heads.
Go Dark.
If the days are just too hot, take on the nights. Get up early before the sun has a chance to get too hot, take a siesta during the hottest part of the day and then get back to it as the sun starts to head for the horizon. You’ll be more productive and a lot happier. Or, go all the way dark and flip your days for nights. You might be surprised how cool being a night owl can be. Can’t hack the night scene? Think darkness, keep blinds closed and if you’re still rocking some halogen or incandescent bulbs, turn ’em off.
Bring it on, heatwave. With these stay-cool tricks, we’re laughing in Mr. Thermometer’s face.
