Stay Cool, Even Without Air Conditioning

6/15/2006

So summer is finally here! But, unfortunately, summer isn't so much fun for you: You aren't one of the lucky ones with air conditioning. Don't let that make your summer a sweaty mess. Follow some of these tips and you'll see that you can stay cool, even when the temperature is rising.

1. Drink plenty of liquids, even if you aren't thirsty. Avoid alcoholic drinks, as they can make you dehydrated.

2. Dress in lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing. Favor clothing made of fabrics like cotton, silk or linen. They will let your skin breathe, especially when they are not tight on your body. Flowing shirts, skirts, dresses and pants made of natural fibers will feel more comfortable than man-made fibers like polyester, which can be sticky in the heat.

3. Keep the shades drawn in your house and the lights off. It will keep the temperature in your home cooler.

4. Stick with light meals that will keep you cool. You should especially favor fruits and vegetables, but make sure you eat the right ones. Varieties specifically known for their cooling properties include sweet fruits like melons, cherries or grapes and vegetables like asparagus, cucumbers, broccoli and zucchini. These particular foods are either sweet or bitter, and are astringent and full of water, which makes them cooling. Reduce your consumption of vegetables with heating properties such as tomatoes, hot peppers, radishes, beats, onions, garlic and spinach.

5. If you don't have air conditioning, go somewhere that does! See the latest release at the movie theater. Shop for flip-flops at the mall. Read a novel at the library, or eat a salad and ice cream at your favorite air-conditioned restaurant.

6. Install ceiling and floor fans in each room. They will help circulate air and keep your home cool.

7. Make your own air conditioning! Fill a bowl with ice and place it in front of a fan. Or, make an icy neck wrap: Place ice cubes in your hand or on a wet face towel and rub it on the back of your neck.

8. Take frequent baths and showers using tepid water. That water temperature will help cool you off.

9. Sleep comfortably. Leave the windows open. Dress in shorts and T-shirts. Swap the comforter and blanket for a top sheet.

10. If you don't have air conditioning, it's likely hotter inside than it is outside. Go frolic in the sprinklers or a take a dip in the kiddie pool. Go for a moonlight stroll to take in the cool evening air. Explore the neighborhood by bike. Just avoid overexposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.