Stay Cool While Staying Green

This summer has been a doozy for everyone where the heat is concerned – record temps have been set everywhere!  Whether you’re trying to keep the AC running a minimal amount or you don’t have an AC at all, these tips can help you stay cool. 

One way to cool off on a hot day!

• Use fans:  If it weren't for fans, I don’t know how I would have survived growing up in the South without AC.  We currently have ceiling fans in all of our rooms, even the bathroom!  Need some extra cooling power?  If you have a floor fan, place a bucket full of ice in front of the fan.  Once it melts, stick the whole thing in the freezer and repeat!

• Keep your pulse points cool:  Put an ice pack against your wrists and your forehead.  We use those “disposable” ice packs that bend and flex, then wrap them in a damp washcloth.  Instant relief!  This is especially great if you’ve been outside to get your core temperature down. 
• Stay hydrated:  Be sure to drink lots of ice water, however, do not guzzle it!  Drinking cold drinks too quickly in the heat can be extremely dangerous! 
• Cool clothes:  Wear lose fitting clothes made out of natural fibers.  They breathe better and keep you cooler!  Why do you think all of those cute cotton sundresses are so popular in the south? 
• Stay cool with sports:  I've heard that a mixture of ammonia spirits (1.5 oz.) with ice water (1 gallon) in a cooler works well.  Bring several small towels and rub towels on skin as needed. Works amazingly well for outdoor activities.
• Head to a cool location:  Head to the mall, library, or some other place and take a walk, read a book, or find a place to sit and relax!  They’re paying for the AC anyway, so might as well use it!
• Stay away from heavy meals:  In the summer, we tend to snack a lot and not eat big meals.  Getting weighted down can make you feel hot!
• Turn up the thermostat when you’re away:  This serves two purposes.   You don’t have to feel as bad when it’s running later since it’s been off, and you get the cooling effects from it running when you get home.  We usually keep ours set at 81 during the day.

How do you keep cool in the summer?