When the heat kicks in and you feel like you’re slowly melting into your chair, it’s tempting to just hide inside with the curtains drawn. But that’s not much fun, and you still want to get out and enjoy the summer without feeling like you’re about to pass out. Staying cool doesn’t have to mean living in front of a fan all day. With a few easy tweaks, you can enjoy the sunshine without overheating.
This is a collaborative post.
Light and loose clothing
What you wear makes a big difference to how you feel in the heat. Stick to breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, and keep things loose so the air can move around you. This is where cocoon dresses are a great choice. They’re roomy, comfortable, and don’t cling to your skin, so you stay cooler for longer. Pale colours help too because they reflect the sun instead of absorbing it, so save the dark shades for cooler days.
Stay hydrated
It sounds obvious, but plenty of people still don’t drink enough water when it’s hot. You might not even feel thirsty until you’re already dehydrated, so keep a bottle nearby and sip through the day. If plain water feels boring, add slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries to make it more refreshing. Try to go easy on the fizzy drinks and alcohol because they can make you lose fluids faster, which is the exact opposite of what you need in the heat.
Keep your home cool
You don’t always need air conditioning to stop your house feeling like a sauna. Closing blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day can stop the sun heating up the rooms. Open your windows in the early morning or late evening when the air outside is cooler, and let the breeze in. If you’ve got a fan, put a bowl of ice in front of it for a quick homemade cooling system.
Plan your outdoor time
If you’ve got things to do outside, try to get them done before 11am or after 4pm when the sun isn’t as intense. That way you can still enjoy being out without the harsh midday heat. If you’re out in the middle of the day, stick to shaded spots where you can take regular breaks from the sun. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can make all the difference to how comfortable you feel.
Cool your body down
Sometimes the fastest way to feel better is to bring your body temperature down directly. A quick cold shower can give you instant relief, but even running your wrists under cold water can help. You can also wet a small towel, pop it in the fridge for a bit, and then place it on the back of your neck. It’s a small trick that can help you feel a lot more comfortable when you’re stuck in sticky, humid weather.
With a bit of planning, staying cool in summer doesn’t have to be a challenge. These simple changes can help you enjoy the sunshine without spending all season feeling hot, tired, and drained.