Beat the Heat

Beat the Heat

Summer is around the bend and you better be ready!! As the previous few years have shown, summers are getting progressively hotter and this year promises to be no different. The sweat trickling down your forehead into your eyes, the sweaty armpits and sticky under garments. The fans or even the Air conditioning gets beaten by the sun’s heat. Indian summers have long stopped being the 30^oC moderate heat of yesteryears.

Sometime common sense beats the latest technology in beating such discomfort. Listed below are a few techniques that have been tried and tested and proven effective

1. Avoid large protein rich meals: Having a large meal, rich in proteins during the summer can increase metabolic heat and warm the body. Try out protein rich shakes made from a variety of fruits or berries, like grapes, kiwi, guavas or even oranges, to fetch you the protein you need as well as keep your body from overheating
2. Cool your cosmetics and creams: It’s a good idea to keep your lotions, moisturizers and creams in the refrigerator. The product won’t get spoiled when applied, it is almost certain to create a refreshing sensation
3. Use a hot water bottle: Yes, you read that right. Take your regular hot water bottle, get rid of the insulating cover if you wish, and fill it up with ice cold water. Place it under your knees, and enjoy the chill, as it spreads across your body.
4. Make everything mintier: Varieties of mint are capable of creating an illusion that makes you feel cool when the surroundings may be scorching hot. It’s a good idea, to eat a mints after meals; get your hands on a mint scented air freshener; add mint leaves to your water; and even dab some peppermint essential oil on your body after a cold shower.
5. Stay hydrated: It goes without saying, make sure your body isn’t left wanting for water. You will sweat a lot and it’s important to replenish your fluid content by drinking water regularly. Dehydration can cause serious weakness, fatigue and other illnesses in extreme circumstances
6. Cool yourself off with water: This is why swimming pools are such a popular concept, especially during the summer. Grab yourself a towel, dip it in cold water and place it on your forehead or shoulders. You could also go for regular baths, to feel refreshed.
7. Temporarily move to a lower floor: This works in independent villas with multiple floors. If you’re sleeping in on a higher floor, you should know that hot air rises and cold air settles. So, keep your window shut. Also remember to use the fan as it is more important to move the air than to cool it using the AC
8. Wear appropriate clothing: When the sun isn’t your best friend, you must dress accordingly. Choose cotton clothing instead of other materials, as it is extremely light and absorbent. Simultaneously, go for lighter colours, as dark colours have the tendency to absorb heat, while lighter colours, reflect the sun’s radiation.

And don’t forget the cool evening breeze at the end of the hot sizzling day. There is nothing like the nature’s fan and use it well.