We’ve got some tips to help you stay cool!

We’ve all been spending a lot of time inside and when the sun is shining it is only natural to want to spend time outside enjoying the weather!  However, when the temperatures rise, there is such a thing as too much sun.  We’d like to offer you a few tips so that you can enjoy your summer without getting overheated.

Below are our tips to keep you cool all summer long:

  • Hydrate – When you know you are going to be spending an extended period of time outside it is important that you drink plenty of water.  How much?  Well, most of us are likely not drinking enough.  A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces each and every day.  So if you weigh 160 lbs, you should be drinking 80 ounces of water daily.

 Side note, sports drinks are also good to help you replace your electrolytes but we recommend you avoid both caffeine and alcohol. 

 Find some shade – During the hours of 11am and 2pm when the sun is at its highest point we recommend that you find some shade or head inside for some lunch.

  • Dress appropriately – You need to make sure you are dressing for the weather.
    • Wear loose cotton clothing so your skin can breathe
    • Put a hat on to protect your face and scalp from the harsh sun
    • Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the UV rays
  • Cool Down – If you feel yourself getting overheated we’ve got a few tricks to share.
    • Head inside for a bit and take a shower or bath in cold or tepid water
    • Place an ice pack or a bottle of ice water on your pressure points (neck, ankles, wrists, behind your knees, in your elbow bends, and your temple)
    • Do a hat trick – pour a small amount of water into your hat and then plop it back on your head.
  • Enjoy a frosty treat – Grab a popsicle, icy or smoothie and enjoy!
  • Listen to your body – If your body tells you it’s had enough sun, listen!  Head inside for a bit or find yourself a shady corner and rest until you are ready for more.

One final tip that has nothing to do with staying cool but it needs to be shared – Please wear sunscreen!  Even if the day is overcast and the sun isn’t shining bright, you can still burn.  Look for a high quality sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.  If you (or your kids) have fair skin something stronger like a SPF of 50 might be a smarter choice.

Spending time in the sun is good for you!  It gives your body the Vitamin D it needs and it is good for your soul. Hopefully our tips will allow your time outdoors to be enjoyable and keep you cool all summer through!