There’s a lot to love about summer . The fact that there’s no snow is definitely the highlight for most. But with warm weather comes… warm weather . More specifically, heatwaves that make it a little tough to stay outside for too long.
For many of us, extreme heat is something we only have to deal with once in a blue moon. But other (much warmer) climates feel the heat more. And they’re kind of experts on how to deal with all that sun and hot air.
With a recent heatwave hitting the U.K., some Brits are feeling a little hotter than usual.
But don’t worry. If you aren’t used to extreme heat, the internet has your back.
A Twitter thread by @NJSimmondsbooks has gone viral, because it’s full of helpful heat-beating tips you might not have known — and they certainly apply outside the U.K.
One of the most important things to remember is to keep the sun away.
Even if you’re in an air conditioned house, sun peeking through the windows is gonna heat you up. Closing the curtains blocks the sun, which in turn blocks the heat.
Try not to move around a lot.
You know how, when you’re cold, you might jump and flail around to warm up? Yeah, do the exact opposite on a hot day. More movement = more body heat, and less movement = less body heat. Pretty simple stuff.
What you eat and drink can affect how warm you feel.
There’s this weird theory that drinking hot coffee will keep you cool in the summer, which is, like, a half truth at best . The best way to stay cool is to consume things that aren’t hot (of course).
This one relates back to the second tip.
Working hard in the middle of the day is a surefire way to tire yourself out, and probably put yourself at risk of heatstroke. Of course, sometimes it isn’t avoidable, but trying to do as little as possible at the hottest point of the day (usually around 11am to 3pm) is key.
Cold water (surprise, surprise) also keeps you cool.
Taking a dip in a lake or pool cools you down because the water is cooler than your body temperature (and the sun, of course). Hot water warms you up, so try to avoid it (though I can’t lie, I’ll still take hot showers in the middle of summer).
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Sleep with as little clothing and sheets as possible.
I mean, definitely have some kind of outfit that’s easy to put on in case the fire alarm goes off in the middle of the night, but sure (though I personally think using AC at night if you have it is fine).
This one might not be scientifically backed.
I don’t know if there’s any actual science behind this one, but it also kind of makes sense. Sipping water over a long period of time is a little more consistent than gulping it all at once. I think.
What you wear definitely matters.
The best fabric to wear in the summer is cotton, because it absorbs water and keeps you from getting sweaty (which helps with heat and chafing). Other fabrics like linen, silk, and rayon work too.
Protect yourself from the sun.
Fun fact: you can get a sunburn through clothes. If you wear lighter fabrics, then the sun can actually pass right through onto the skin. Clothes like black shirts and denim pants help block sun , but your best bet is to always use a good sunscreen.
If you’re prone to rashes and chafing, try products that’ll help mitigate that.
Look, there’s nothing more uncomfortable than a rash in a spot where the sun don’t shine. Just try what might work and do your best out there!
The Twitter thread inspired others to share their own tips.
I’ve never tried this, but I know it’d work because it’s the exact opposite in the winter (please, never walk around with wet hair in the cold).
Plus, a hairdryer would heat you up, wouldn’t it?
Don’t forget about your pets!
If you’re feeling the heat, your pets are, too. Don’t forget to give them cold (pet friendly) treats and provide them with things that can keep them cool, like a nice, wet cloth.
All in all, the thread was full of nothing but helpful hints.
This is especially important if you don’t have AC. Like the extreme cold, extreme heat can be uncomfortable at best, and dangerous at worst. Stay cool, and stay safe out there!
What have you found effective for keeping cool? Let us know in the comments!
