Unconventional ways to keep cool
Eat spicy foods as these encourage sweating which is known to cool off the body.
The excruciatingly hot weather we have experienced these past few weeks is predicted to continue for the rest of the summer.
Keeping cool during the recent heat wave can be a tricky business, especially when we have to watch our budgets and conserve water. Here are 10 weird but wonderful ways you can keep cool throughout the summer months without wasting water or money.
1. Eat ice or frozen fruit. Healthy, affordable and uses minimal water, these treats will help you stay cool and hydrated to combat the heat.
2. Take advantage of others’ air-conditioning by going out to the shops. Not only will you be cool but entertained as well. You don’t even have to spend any money, just wander from store to store picking up things and looking interested then putting them down again and moving on.
3. Get your friends and family together and hold a wet T-shirt contest. You’ll have fun, create some good memories and cool down at the same time. Go, you sexy beast!
4. This one is especially for the kids. Cool off by playing in the water features found in places like your local mall or casino. It’s tremendous fun and you won’t be wasting any water as the water features will be running whether you play in them or not.You may look a bit goofy but the pay-off is totally worth it.
5. Put your pillow cases and bed sheets in the freezer. Then take them out for a cool and refreshing nap. Easy-peasy.
6. This one requires some water from your part, but not much. Instead of taking a cold bath, place your hands or feet under some cold water and hold it there for 30 seconds. This will be sufficient to give your entire body a cooling sensation and keep cool for a time after.
7. Try eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day as bigger meals will increase your metabolic heat. Also avoid foods high in protein and caffeine as these also increase your metabolic heat.
8. Eat spicy foods as these encourage sweating which is known to cool off the body.
9. Eat hydrating foods such as watermelon and other fruits and drink plenty of liquids. However avoid alcohol as it dehydrates the body, leaving you feeling hotter than before.
10. For a burst of freshness that will keep you cool too, try chewing minty gum an then drinking iced water immediately after. The effect is an intensely cool mouth and a rather chilled body.
Our pets are important too and just like us, they suffer under the unforgiving heat. Here are five tips that you can use to keep them cool too:
1. Provide your pets with plenty of water to keep them hydrated.
2. Many cats and dogs love ice. You can even try freezing treats in ice cubes to make things more interesting for your pet.
3. It may be your instinct to keep your pets outside when its hot but its much better to keep them inside near an open window or door where they can feel the cool breeze. Giving them their daily walks early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is not as hot.
4. For extra coolness, give your pet a ceramic tile or frozen water bottle to lie on or lean against.
5. Never leave your pets in a closed car when you go out, this may lead to severe overheating and even heat stroke which can be fatal.
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