Happy Saturday. Today I’ll be addressing the hot topic on everyone’s mind as the mercury rises. This article is about the best ways to stay cool in summer months. Staying cool isn’t just about comfort; it’s also about health. 
Best Ways to Stay Cool in Summer
The temperatures have been climbing year after year thanks to climate change. figuring out the best ways to stay cool in summer is more than a convenience—it’s a necessity. Keep your water bottle full of cold water.
There are a variety of tactics that cater to every lifestyle and budget, prioritizing a mix of immediate relief and long-term solutions. Don’t worry too much about completely overhauling your routine. Sometimes, the smallest changes have the most significant impacts, allowing you to beat the heat effectively.
Now, you may wonder why we emphasize the ‘natural and sustainable’ part. Simply put, air conditioning isn’t always accessible or affordable. With discussions around energy consumption and environmental impact heating up, finding eco-friendly ways to stay cool is not just smart—it’s responsible.
So, my question to you today is, Are you ready to make this summer the most comfortable one yet?’ Good, because I’ve got some cool tactics up my sleeve that I’m eager to share. And that all starts with the fundamental element of life itself: water.
The Essential Role of Water and Cooling Beverages
The Summer Superpower
Want to know a little secret? Staying hydrated is your superpower during the sweltering summer months. Although hydration is a way to quench your thirst. – it’s also a game-changer for keeping your body cool. 
Sweating Releases Heat
When you’re properly hydrated, your body will sweat and release heat more efficiently. This is crucial because sweating is one of the main ways your body cools itself down.
Knowing about the best practices for water intake during these hot times is key. Drinking water consistently throughout the day is a must, even if you’re not feeling particularly thirsty.
Drink About 2 Liters a Day
Experts often recommend drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses, which is about 2 liters, or half a gallon, each day. This might vary depending on your activity level, your personal health, and where you live, though.
Add a Splash of Fruit Flavor
In my opinion, nothing beats water for staying hydrated. However, there are other cooling beverages that contribute to your daily fluid intake. Think about adding a splash of fruity flavors to your water with slices of lemon, lime, or cucumber.
Iced Herbal Teas and Smoothies
If you want to get creative, make iced herbal teas or whip up some refreshing smoothies packed with summer fruits and veggies.
Carry a Water Bottle
Choose something that you like, and get in the habit of carrying a water bottle. It’s the easiest way to remind yourself to hydrate. And don’t worry too much about overdoing it. Just listen to your body. It’ll let you know what it needs. After all, hydration isn’t just a summer fling, it’s a year-round commitment.
Optimizing Your Home for Thermal Comfort
Smart Living Spaces
During the sweltering summer months, your home seems like either be an oasis of cool or a stifling hot box. The key difference? Smart design and a few clever tweaks. I’ll be sure to shed some light on the art of keeping your living spaces as cool as possible. You don’t really need to resort to cranking up the air conditioner.
Insulation Does Wonders
First up, insulation isn’t just for keeping warmth in during the winter. The same principles apply to keeping heat out. If you want to get technical, look into reflective roofing materials or insulating paint. Simple things like adding weather stripping to doors and windows also make a massive difference by sealing in the cool air.
Trees Provide Aditional Shade
Let’s talk about windows. They’re essentially the eyes of your home when it comes to energy efficiency. During the daytime, keep those blinds and curtains drawn to prevent your personal space from turning into a miniature greenhouse. For a more natural vibe, consider planting leafy trees or vines near sun-facing windows for additional shading.
Ventilation and Air Circulation
Ventilation is your best friend. When the outside temperature drops in the evening, take advantage by opening windows on opposite ends of your home to create a cross breeze. Incorporate ceiling fans or portable fans to keep air moving – remember, it’s not just about cold air, but importantly, air circulation.
Light-Colored Walls and Roofing
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of color. Light-colored walls and roofing reflect sunlight, which will significantly lower indoor temperatures. Consider a fresh coat of paint if you’re serious about beating the heat. And if you’re really into sustainable living, explore the wonders of a green roof or living wall; these also provide insulation and beauty in one fell swoop.
Cool Wardrobe Choices
Dressing for Summer Comfort
I’ll let you in on a secret: What you wear is one of your best defenses against the summer heat. That’s right, your wardrobe choices significantly influence how cool you feel as the temperatures soar. 
Cotton, Linen amd Hemp
This isn’t just about choosing light-colored clothes—although that’s a good start. It’s also about the type of fabrics you wear. Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and hemp are your best bets because they’re breathable and allow air to circulate. This helps evaporate sweat and cools your body down.
Wear Loose Flowy garments and Long Sleeves
Choose something that resonates with you when it comes to fit and style. Loose, flowy garments are ideal because they don’t cling to your body. But remember, protecting your skin from the sun is critical, so opt for long sleeves when you can, or apply a generous amount of sunscreen. 
Wide-Brim Hats and Sunglasses
In my opinion, accessories shouldn’t be overlooked. A wide-brimmed hat shields your face and neck from direct sunlight, reducing the risk of overheating. Sunglasses will protect your eyes while a good quality, natural-based sunblock will take care of uncovered areas of your skin.
No worries. You can change things up down the road. Starting with these simple wardrobe adjustments makes a considerable difference in how you experience summer heat.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Timing and Activities for Cooler Days
Getting through summer isn’t just about staying indoors and turning on the air conditioner. Why not tweak your daily patterns and choose certain activities that naturally help to keep you cool.
For example, a few lifestyle adjustments will make a significant difference in how you experience the warmer months.
Early Mornings and Evenings are Cooler
Timewise, it’s strategic to schedule your errands and exercise during the cooler parts of the day. I’m talking early mornings or evenings when the sun is less intense. Not only will you feel more comfortable, but you’ll also reduce your risk of heat exhaustion.
The Gladwynne Garden Club
As a veteran gardener of 10 years, we learned early on to prioritize our responsibilities. For example, we learned to do the heaviest chores in the earliesr parts of the day, when the temperatures are coolest. Oftentimes before sunrise. During these early hours it is much cooler to weed, plant new seeds and even mulch.
A Gardener’s Protocol
Each gardener wore wide-brimmed hats, breathable, loose-fitting, long-sleeved, cotton tops, sunglasses, garden gloves and carried a water bottle. In my 10-year membership, I can’t remember having heat exhaustion. 
Staying Cool is Key
After 10 a.m. we took a break and cooled off under a shade tree. We went indoors to enjoy a nutritious, healthy lunch and then proceeded to go back to work. Working with experienced gardeners was a lot of fun. Garden care creates many opportunities.
My Life-Changing Experience
That’s why I still love gardening. After pulling weeds, pruning trees, turning the soil, planting, filling in beautiful flower beds in early spring to building amazing rock gardens, it is an unforgettable experience of a lifetime. It is life-changing as well.
At the end of the day, we all had a chance to take a dip into a refreshing, olympic-sized pool. Although I was in my early 20s at the time, it seems like yesterday. This is why gardening is still a major part of my life. Being close to nature is a beautiful thing.
Take a Splash, Walk or Do Yoga
When it comes to physical activity, I suggest taking up swimming or water aerobics. Not only do these activities keep you cool, but they’re also a fantastic way to stay fit during the summer. If swimming isn’t your thing, aim for lighter exercise like walking or yoga, preferably in shaded areas or indoors.
Ways to Cool Off
Remember, summer is a time for fun and relaxation. So, while you’re planning out your day, don’t forget to include some downtime.
Here are great ways to enjoy the season without the swelter:
- Stargazing
- Reading in the shade
- Have a picnic in a cool evening breeze
Ultimately, the key is to listen to your body. If you’re feeling overheated or sluggish, take a break, grab a cooling drink, and give yourself a moment to rejuvenate. Your well-being is the top priority, and staying cool is a big part of that during summer.
Founder and CEO, Rachele
(w) mybluegenes.com
(e)rachele@mybluegenes.com