With temps hitting all time highs, we have been chatting about ways to cool off a bit and I came across this article... I have actually used a couple of these over the past few days! Check it out! If you have any ideas (since this heat wave isn't over yet!) email me: steph.downey@mbsradio.com
(The pink text is my two cents worth!)
12 Ways To Beat The Heat Without An AC
1. Dress For Success - Wear cottons and other natural fabrics such as linen that breathe. Artificial fibers such as rayon and polyester will just turn you into your own oven, keeping all the hot air you're omitting inside your clothes (gross!).
I have been boycotting pants all week... Think sundresses or other loose fititng options. Perfect excuse for a Muumuu
2. Strip! - Not for an audience (unless you'd like one, wink!) but while you're home peel off the layers and chill out in your underwear or bathing suit. Not only does this lower your body temperature but it is also good for your body image! Studies show the more time you spend with your clothes off, the more comfortable you are in your skin.
I have been using this tip, although I am not so sure my roomate is appreciating it...I am definately hoping he doesnt use it.
3. Get Down Girl, Go 'Head Get Down - to the lowest point of your house! Hot air rises so hang out downstairs or better yet, a basement if possible.
Since I am using the previous tip and my roomate lives downstairs I have NOT done this.
4. Minty Fresh - Use products with menthol properties like lotions or soap. Aside from leaving your skin totally refreshed, it also leaves a great cooling and soothing sensation.
5. Freeze It - Grab a washcloth, wet it down and, you guessed it, throw it in the freezer! Then do as you will with it all over your hot bod! Another awesome trick with your freezer if you have a fan is to freeze a couple two liter bottles of water and put them in front of your fan. As the ice melts, the air around the bottles will get colder and the fan will blow it your way.
I actually used the frozen facecloth tip when my puppy was teething as a toy for her. It could be used for pets no matter what age as something to cool them down. Imagine how hot they are with all that fur!
6. Pull Down Your Shades - Seems simple enough but sometimes we forget that enjoying the natural light is also bringing a lot of heat into our homes. Also, keep your house tightly sealed to keep the cool air inside.
If you use tip number 2, this is a good one to use in conjunction...
7. Rub It Out - Put some rubbing alcohol on your face (avoid eyes & mouths, of course, kids) and it will make you feel about thirty degrees cooler when standing in front of moving air.
This may be effective, but I'm not too sure I want to try it.
8. Cool As A Cucumber - Slice thin, cold cucumber slices and place them on your face. There's a reason they do it as a part of those fancy spa treatments- not only does it cool you down, it feels fantastic!
9. Save Energy - Turn off all unnecessary lighting and electronics. Most internal heating is caused by appliances and incandescent lighting. Minimize your day-time laundry and dish doing (take this time to take a nap with some cucumbers, wink!).
A perfect excuse not to do housework and just get takeout!
10. Eat & Drink Cold - Eat lots of fruit and drink plenty of water! Not only will you be staying cool but you'll be contributing to your healthy diet!
Try freezing fruit as a healthy, cool treat as well... Frozen grapes are the best!
11. Avoid Caffeine & Alcohol - Both will raise your your body temperature.
12. Be An Early Bird - The coolest hours are in the morning so if you can start your day earlier, you should!
