Tips to stay cool this summer

February is traditionally one of the hottest months of the year. If you can’t escape the heat by flying to the northern hemisphere, then the following tips should help keep you cool. 

 

Tip 1. Stay hydrated:

Drink two to three litres of water a day. Cooled herbal teas or a watermelon juice can also help. 

 

Tip 2. Take a cold shower:

Splash cold water on your face frequently. 

 

Tip 3. Eat light:

Have a salad instead of a cooked meal.

 

Tip 4. Eat fruit with a high-water content: 

This includes fruits like watermelon, pineapple and grapes.

 

Tip 5. Stay indoors:

Stay indoors and away from the heat, especially in the middle of the day. 

 

Tip 6. Do any outdoor chores early or later in the afternoon

Walk the dog first thing in the morning and water the garden at dusk. 

 

Tip 7. Dress light and loose:

Cotton and natural materials are ideal summer clothing as they breathe better.

 

Tip 8. Avoid caffeine:

Caffeine dehydrates you, opt for herbal tea instead.

 

Tip 9. Avoid exercise in the heat of the day:

Exercise can be more difficult in the height of summer. To avoid getting too hot and bothered, choose an activity like swimming instead. 

 

Tip 10. Keep your house cool inside:

To ensure the heat stays out, close curtains and blinds during the heat of the day.

Keep windows open at night, use a fan and avoid choosing meals that need baking in the oven.

 

Special note: 

If you are hot, your animals will be too! Make sure they have access to clean water and shade, and if the surface is too hot for you to walk on then it’s too hot for them as well. Plants will also appreciate getting watered in the evening or early morning, so that the water gets a chance to soak into the ground before the sun takes it away.