Keep Your Cool: Expert Tips for a Hot Summer

saidqabbaah
Jul 31, 2024
4 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Summer arrives with long golden days and soft, lingering evenings; the kind that invite you to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and savour life outdoors. With just a few simple habits, you can stay refreshed, protect your health, and feel your brightest all season.

Here are seven practical ways to stay cool, energised, and feeling your best this summer.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration becomes your best friend on hot summer days. When your fluid levels dip, your body lets you know pretty quickly; you may feel unusually tired, light-headed, or a bit foggy. Ignore these signals for too long and they can snowball into more serious health issues.

Make water a steady companion throughout the day, especially when you are out in the sun. Also, bring hydration into your meals by enjoying water-rich foods like juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and fresh leafy greens. They keep you nourished, refreshed, and better equipped to handle the heat.

Enjoy the Outdoors Safely

Make the most of the sunny days by getting out into the fresh air. Go for an easy jog, hop on your bike, or wander along your favourite paths and let your mind unwind as your body gets moving. Time spent outdoors lifts your spirits, improves your wellbeing, and gives you a natural dose of vitamin D while you soak in the world around you.

As the temperature rises, remember to look after yourself. Choose light and breathable clothes, pause in the shade whenever you need to, and drink water often. Also, try to avoid pushing yourself too hard during the hottest part of the day. A little care goes a long way in keeping you safe from overheating, sunburn, and heat-related illnesses.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Summer is full of tempting flavours, from ice cream on the beach to late evening barbecues, but nourishing your body will help you enjoy every moment with steady energy and a clear mind. Think colourful when you fill your plate. Let fruits and vegetables take centre stage, with wholegrains and your favourite source of protein sharing the rest of the space.

Lean into lighter, refreshing choices that feel good in the heat. Crisp salads, grilled fish, or tender chicken can be both satisfying and gentle on your system. Keep a cool bottle of water nearby and reach for it from time to time. Try to skip the sugary drinks when you can, and keep processed foods, added salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats to a minimum.

Most of all, listen to what your body is telling you. Slow down, savour each bite, and enjoy your meals with intention. A mindful approach helps you avoid that uncomfortable feeling of overdoing it and brings a little more joy to your summer table.

Practice Sun Safety

Soak up the sunshine, but give your skin a little love while you are at it. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen and apply it generously to any skin that is not covered. Top it up often, especially if you are swimming or getting sweaty.

Try to stay out of the strongest midday sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and reach for light, protective clothing, a wide hat, and a trusty pair of sunglasses whenever you can. With a few simple habits, you can enjoy the bright days of summer while keeping your skin healthy and protected.

Keep Cool

When the sun is blazing, give yourself permission to slow down and stay indoors during the hottest hours. Let a fan or air conditioner keep the air cool and take a quick, refreshing shower whenever you need a reset.

If you do have to head outside, seek out the shade, pause often to cool off, and try to save anything physically demanding for a cooler time of day. Your body will thank you for the extra care.

Prioritise Rest and Relaxation

As you dive into spontaneous summer plans, remember to carve out space for yourself too. Try to get 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep so your body and mind can reset. And don’t underestimate the magic of small, peaceful moments; a few pages of a good book, a slow morning meditation, or a quiet stroll beneath the trees. These gentle pauses help you recharge, stay grounded, and enjoy everything this season has to offer.

Stay Active Indoors

When the hot weather keeps you stuck inside, don’t let it derail your fitness routine. Turn your living room into a mini gym; join a lively fitness class, roll out your yoga mat for some calming stretches or Pilates, or fire up a quick bodyweight session with squats, lunges, and push-ups. Even indoors, you can keep moving, stay energised, and make progress towards your goal.

Make the Most of Summer

Summer is a season made for laughter, adventure, and little moments that turn into lasting memories. By taking care of your health, you can soak up the sunshine, cherish the warm evenings, and feel fully alive in every moment. With these simple strategies, you can stay safe, refreshed, and brimming with energy, making this summer one to truly savour.

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