The longer days of summer offer a chance to engage in leisurely pursuits and spend time with friends. However, the intense heat can limit the extent to which one can enjoy the summer months. Fortunately, there are many innovative means of combating the warmth. Check out a few of them below. Then, give the options that interest you a try, and you’ll be on your way to a cooler, more enjoyable summer.
Add A Pergola To Your Yard:
One way to keep cool and feel comfortable throughout the hot summer season is by seeking shade. If your yard lacks natural shade, you can easily build a shaded area on your lawn. Adding a charming pergola can transform your outdoor space into a haven from the heat.
This structure gives people a place to sit and relax in the great outdoors while avoiding the sun’s rays. Furthermore, individuals can easily create their own pergolas with a 12 x 12 pergola louvered roof kit. These types of kits are also available in other sizes and can provide a perfect space for relaxation not just in the summer, but all year long. They can also be paired with other cooling features, such as ceiling fans and misting systems, for even more enjoyment.
Invest In A Swimming Pool:
If you’re really serious about staying cool, you might want to purchase a swimming pool. Pools come in many sizes and styles, from small plunge pools to huge above ground or in-ground structures. Prices can vary, and pools do require a lot of maintenance and frequent cleaning. In spite of these facts, many people find that the cost and the responsibilities prove worthwhile in the end.
After all, pools not only help people stay comfortable during the hottest months of the year, but they also provide an easy way to exercise. Add all this to the fact that regular swimming comes with many benefits, and it’s easy to see why so many individuals love having their very own pools. If you’re not up for the investment or the upkeep, you can always get a membership to a community pool. Alternately, purchase a little kiddie pool for soaking your feet or just doing some quick, easy cooling.
Time Your Outings With Care:
People who hate the heat may avoid going outside during the summer months. However, you don’t have to stop going outside altogether, not should you. Simply go at the right times. Capitalize on the more pleasant temperature ranges during the early morning and evening for improved results. Steer clear of the hottest moments during the day, especially if you plan on doing anything physical or exerting. Hourly weather forecasts can also provide crucial information to help you plan your day around the heat.
Drink Lots Of Liquids, Especially Water:
Dehydration can have detrimental consequences, including potential health risks. Summer’s intense heat can easily lead to an increased risk of dehydration. Excessive sweating further increases the likelihood. To alleviate and prevent heat-related dehydration, consume generous amounts of chilled H2O throughout the day.
In addition to water, consume sports drinks, milk, and juice in moderation. Raw vegetables and fruits can also help quench your thirst. Just be sure to avoid drinks that can make dehydration worse, such as soda, coffee, energy drinks, and all alcohol.
Slather On Some Sunblock:
The sun’s rays might feel nice, but they can wreak havoc on the skin. Too much time in the sun can lead to painful sunburns, which can cause dehydration. To keep this from happening, invest in a good, strong sunblock, and put it on before going outside. Reapply the sunblock often, especially after sweating or playing in the water. Whether you choose a spray or a cream, the sunblock feels great going on and can keep the skin nice, cool, and protected.
Cut Out Indoor Cooking:
It’s easy to work up an appetite when you’re out in the sun for long periods of time. Unfortunately, though, turning on the oven or even using the stove can cause indoor temperatures to rise. Furthermore, eating big meals can cause the body to release heat as it digests the food. Talk about a recipe for being hot, sweaty, and uncomfortable!
To avoid these issues, skip indoor cooking whenever possible. Choose foods that don’t need to be cooked, such as crisp salads or savory sushi rolls, or order in your favorite dishes. Alternately, use the microwave for heating foods, or fire up the grill outdoors. Whenever possible, aim to eat foods that are light and nutritious. You can even get away with adding in some cooling treats, like ice pops or a little bit of ice cream.
Educate Yourself On Heat Stroke And Its Warning Signs:
As a final tip, understand that too much heat exposure can sometimes lead to a dangerous condition known as heat stroke. While the options listed above can help people lessen their chances of heat stroke, it’s still a possibility when the temperatures rise. Heat stroke is particularly common in individuals who are elderly, ill, or who exercise in hot weather, so people in these categories should be extra vigilant.
Heat stroke can strike suddenly, but it does have some warning signs. These include an unusually high temperature, mental confusion, flushing, and severe headaches. Individuals who are experiencing signs of heat stroke should seek prompt medical attention to reduce their risk of serious complications.
No one wants to be overly hot in the summer. It can make every day miserable. That’s why it’s important to take control of your comfort and do what you can to stay safe and cool.
All of these options can be a big help, and there are many other things you can do too. Investing in a good air conditioning system, staying in a shaded pergola or other structure, adding indoor and outdoor fans, dressing for the weather, and even misting yourself with a little cool water are other great ideas. The more you do to stay cool, the more you can enjoy your summer.
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