How to Stay Cool During a Heatwave

Control your Enviroment

1. Block the sun
   The first thing to do is keep the sun out of your home. This means closing your curtains, blinds, or shutters throughout the day. Yes, it might make you feel like a vampire, but at least your home will stay a little cooler. It’s even better if you have blackout curtains.
2. Optimize airflow
   This tip completely depends on the temperature outside. If it’s cooler outdoors, open all your windows and doors to let the cool, fresh air into your home. Open them early in the morning, then close them as soon as the temperature starts to rise to keep the heat outside.
3. Avoid extra heat
   Even lights and electronic devices give off heat, so avoid using them unless it is necessary. Turn off lights in rooms you’re not using and unplug electronics when possible. Every little bit helps, especially during very hot days, as reducing extra heat sources can make your home feel noticeably cooler.
4. Use fans
   Another way to cool your house when you don’t have air conditioning is to use fans. However, keep in mind that if it’s 35°C or hotter indoors, fans will simply blow warm air around. You can easily improve this by placing frozen water bottles in front of the fan, which will help create a cooler breeze.
5. Seek AC locations
   If you’re at home and it’s unbearably warm indoors, you can always spend some time in places that have air conditioning. Maybe it’s a good time to do your grocery shopping, visit a café, or work or read in the library. Many public spaces have air conditioning, so taking advantage of them can help you cool down and get a break from the heat.

Cool Your Body

1. Cold Compress
   This is my favorite tip of all, because it’s something I do when it gets really warm and I can’t find a way to cool down. Putting a wet towel on your body can give you some relief. It just feels nice, and suddenly it becomes easier to breathe during a heatwave. I usually put mine on my neck, but you can also place it on your wrists or inside your elbows.
2. Water
   Take colder showers to cool your body down a little, or find a swimming pool, start a water fight, or simply spray some water onto your body or face. Water can help cool your body down for a while.
3. Dress light
   This is an obvious one, but you should wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. It’s even better if the fabric is linen or cotton. These are the best breathable fabrics and won’t make you sweat even more.
4. Cool extremities
   One thing they always do is make sure older people stay cool, often by giving them a kiddie pool so they can put their feet in the water. This actually helps them cool their bodies down. And if it works for them, why not for you? Fill a kiddie pool, basin, or whatever you have with water, put your feet in it, and just relax.

Hydration and Diet

1. Drink water consistently
   Put a water bottle next to you and bring it everywhere you go, because you need to make sure you drink enough water. If you don’t drink enough, you will lose focus and may start getting headaches. So take several sips every hour.
2. Stay away from dehydrating drinks
   It is interesting how many people drink more alcohol when it is warm, even though it is exactly the opposite of what you should do. Alcohol, caffeine, and overly sugary drinks are the ones you should try to avoid, as they can dehydrate your body.
3. Eat light
   Eat smaller, lighter meals. Large meals that are high in protein and fat divert blood to your intestines to aid digestion, which makes your body generate internal heat. Eat more vegetables and fruit, and have more salads during a heatwave. Reach for fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and berries.
4. Drink hot water
   This sounds a bit weird, but it is something I learned years ago. Apparently, if you drink hot water, you will feel hot at first, but then your body starts to cool down again. If you drink iced water, you will feel colder at first, but then your body works hard to raise its temperature again, and it can even feel hotter than before. Although during a heatwave with temperatures above 30 degrees, you might be better off with just room-temperature water.

   Photo by Aleisha Kalina on Unsplash

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A long time ago, I was doing an internship, and there was someone there who introduced me to drinking hot water. Every day, we had a coffee/tea break together, and while I was drinking tea, another woman would always drink hot water. One day, I asked her why, and she explained that drinking hot water had a lot of benefits. Of course, I had to try it! Honestly, I ended up liking it more than cold water, and now I actually prefer drinking hot water over cold, even in the summer. And today I am sharing those benefits of drinking hot water with you.

The Benefits of Drinking Hot Water

1. Supports Digestion: Warm water can help stimulate digestion by encouraging blood flow to the digestive organs. It may help your body break down food more efficiently and reduce feelings of bloating or heaviness.
2. Helps Relieve Constipation: Drinking hot water can help soften stools and encourage regular bowel movements, especially when consumed in the morning.
3. Promotes Relaxation: Warm water has a calming effect on the nervous system. It can help your body relax and may reduce tension or stress, especially when enjoyed slowly.
4. May Improve Circulation: Warm water helps dilate blood vessels, which can support better circulation and reduce stiffness in the body.
5. Helps With Detox Processes: Water supports the body’s natural detox systems. Drinking warm water may help stimulate sweating and urination, assisting the body in eliminating waste.
6. Soothes the Throat: Hot or warm water can feel soothing for a dry or irritated throat, especially during colder months or when you’re feeling under the weather.
7. May Reduce Bloating: Warm water can help relax the digestive tract, making it easier for gas to move through the system and reducing bloating.
8. Supports Morning Hydration: Starting your day with warm water gently rehydrates your body after sleep without overwhelming your system.
9. Can Help With Menstrual Discomfort: Warm water may help relax muscles and reduce cramps by improving blood flow.
10. Eases Nasal Congestion: Steam from hot water can help loosen mucus and soothe a stuffy nose.
11. May Support Weight Management: Warm water can slightly boost metabolism and may help you feel full before meals.
12. Encourages Mindful Drinking: Sipping warm water slowly invites mindfulness — you notice the taste, temperature, and the act of drinking itself.
13. Supports Hydration During Cold Weather: Cold water can feel shocking in winter, while warm water keeps you hydrated comfortably.
14. Calms an Upset Stomach: Warm water can relax the muscles of the digestive tract, helping reduce nausea or mild stomach discomfort.
15. Boosts Energy Gently: Unlike caffeine, warm water can refresh your system subtly by aiding circulation and hydration.
16. Improves Skin Health: Hydration from warm water supports circulation and can help maintain skin elasticity and a healthy glow.
17. Reduces Stress Hormones: The warmth signals your body to relax, which may help lower cortisol levels and promote calm.
18. Supports Oral Health: Warm water can help wash away bacteria gently, especially when paired with morning routines like brushing.

Photo by Thomas Park on Unsplash

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Hey there, summer lovers!

The sun is shining, the days are long, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy all the fun activities that come with hot weather. But while you’re out there soaking up the sun, it’s crucial to remember the importance of self-care, especially when the temperatures rise. When it’s super warm, taking care of yourself isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. Here’s why you need to amp up your self-care game in hot weather and some tips to keep you cool and comfortable.

Why It is Important That You Take Care of Yourself

Self-care is always important, no matter the weather. However, when it’s extremely warm outside, it becomes even more crucial. If you neglect your self-care during hot weather, you risk becoming dehydrated, sunburned, and losing energy. In summer, you need a different self-care routine to stay on top of your game and maintain your energy levels for all the activities you enjoy. Extreme heat can also affect your mood and mental well-being, leading to increased stress and irritability. Self-care isn’t just about taking a hot bath with bath bombs; it’s primarily about ensuring you have the energy for your daily activities and feel good both mentally and physically. Prioritizing self-care in hot weather helps you avoid dehydration, heat strokes, and sunburns, keeping you healthy and happy.

Self-care Tips For Hot Weather

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and make a habit of sipping regularly. Infuse your water with fruits like lemon or cucumber for a refreshing twist.
2. Wear Sunscreen: Protect your skin by applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to cover often-missed spots like your ears, neck, and feet.
3. Dress Lightly: Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen help keep you cool by allowing air to circulate.
4. Seek Shade: When the sun is at its peak (usually between 10 AM and 4 PM), try to stay in the shade as much as possible. Use umbrellas, hats, or sunglasses to protect yourself from direct sunlight.
5. Cool Showers: Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature. It’s a quick way to refresh and cool down.
6. Use Fans and AC: Make use of fans or air conditioning to keep indoor spaces cool. If you don’t have AC, spend time in public places that do, like libraries or malls.
7. Limit Physical Activity: Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. If you must exercise, do it early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler.
8. Eat Light: Opt for lighter meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Heavy meals can increase your body temperature and make you feel sluggish.
9. Hydrating Foods: Include foods with high water content in your diet, like watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries. These help keep you hydrated and refreshed.
10. Cooling Products: Use cooling products like aloe vera gel, cooling towels, or misting fans. These can provide instant relief from the heat.
11. Stay Connected: Check in on friends and family, especially those who are more vulnerable to heat, like the elderly or young children. Make sure they’re staying cool and hydrated too.
12. Rest Well: Ensure you get enough sleep. Use lightweight bedding and keep your bedroom cool and dark to improve sleep quality during hot nights.
13. Mind Your Mental Health: Take breaks, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities that help you relax and de-stress. The heat can be taxing on your mental well-being, so give yourself some TLC.

Keep Cool and Carry On

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the great outdoors and soak up the sunshine, but it’s important to prioritize your self-care to stay safe and healthy. By following these tips, you can beat the heat and make the most of the sunny season. Stay cool, hydrated, and happy, everyone!

Got any more hot weather self-care tips? Drop them in the comments below!

Photo by Jordan Bauer on Unsplash

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Some people like coffee, others like me prefer tea. I have so many tea boxes in my storage at home. For every mood, I have the perfect tea flavor.  And today, I’m here to rave about one of my all-time favorite brews – chamomile tea. Picture yourself on a cozy evening, wrapped up in a blanket, with a steaming cup of chamomile in hand. Sounds delightful, doesn’t it? Well, let me tell you, it’s not just about the taste; there’s a whole world of goodness packed into those tiny chamomile flowers.

Warning: But just like with drinking any kind of herb tea, you also should be careful. I will also explain in this post when you should avoid it.

What is Chamomile tea?

First things first, let’s talk about what chamomile actually is. Chamomile is an herb that belongs to the daisy family. It’s been cherished for centuries for its medicinal properties and soothing aroma. The two most common types of chamomile used for tea are German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum mobile).

Brewing chamomile tea is a breeze. Simply bring water to a boil, pour it over dried chamomile flowers or a chamomile tea bag, and let it steep for about 5-10 minutes. You can adjust the steeping time based on how strong you prefer your tea. Once it’s ready, feel free to sweeten it with a bit of honey or enjoy it as is.

The Magic of Chamomile – The Benefits

Now, onto the good stuff – the benefits! Chamomile tea isn’t just a delicious beverage; it’s also packed with health perks:

1. Promotes Relaxation: Chamomile is renowned for its calming properties. Sipping on a warm cup of chamomile tea can help ease stress and promote relaxation, making it the perfect bedtime ritual. Imagine you making a cup of chamomile tea, and sipping your tea while reading a book before going to bed. It is the perfect way to end your day.
2. Aids Digestion: Feeling a bit bloated or dealing with indigestion? Chamomile tea to the rescue! It can help soothe the stomach, relieve gas, and even alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
3. Boosts Immunity: Chamomile tea contains antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system, keeping pesky illnesses at bay. And who doesn’t want a stronger immune system? Especially during the darker and colder months, chamomile can be very beneficial.
4. Supports Sleep: Tossing and turning all night? Chamomile tea is here to help. Its mild sedative properties can promote better sleep and improve overall sleep quality. It helps you to relax and before you know it you will fall asleep. Like I said, it is the perfect tea to drink before bedtime.
5. Skincare Savior: Say goodbye to irritated skin! Chamomile tea’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a fantastic natural remedy for soothing skin irritations, such as eczema or sunburn. So if you are struggling with irritated skin, it wouldn’t hurt to try it. Just take one cup of chamomile tea a day and see if it helps you. Several teas are good for your body and mind and chamomile tea might be the right tea for your skin.

Usage and Precautions

While chamomile tea is generally safe for most people, it’s essential to use it in moderation, especially if you have allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family, such as ragweed. Additionally, pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before consuming chamomile tea, as it may stimulate the uterus.

As for how often you can indulge in this delightful brew, there’s no hard and fast rule. Feel free to enjoy a cup whenever you need a little pick-me-up or a moment of relaxation. But I would recommend not to drink more than one or two cups a day. Just drink your chamomile tea before bed or when you have a stressful moment.

So there you have it, folks – chamomile tea, the ultimate elixir for relaxation and wellness. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or in need of a digestive aid, chamomile has got your back. So brew yourself a cup, kick back, and let the soothing magic of chamomile do its thing. Cheers to your health and happiness!

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Five and Seven said nothing, but looked at Two. Two began in a low voice, ‘Why the fact is, you see, Miss, this here ought to have been a red rose-tree, and we put a white one in by mistake; and if the Queen was to find it out, we should all have our heads cut off, you know. So you see, Miss, we’re doing our best, afore she comes, to—’ At this moment Five, who had been anxiously looking across the garden, called out ‘The Queen! The Queen!’ and the three gardeners instantly threw themselves flat upon their faces. There was a sound of many footsteps, and Alice looked round, eager to see the Queen.

“Alice recognized the White Rabbit: it was talking in a hurried nervous manner, smiling at everything that was said, and went by without noticing her.”

Alice in Wonderland

First came ten soldiers carrying clubs; these were all shaped like the three gardeners, oblong and flat, with their hands and feet at the corners: next the ten courtiers; these were ornamented all over with diamonds, and walked two and two, as the soldiers did. After these came the royal children; there were ten of them, and the little dears came jumping merrily along hand in hand, in couples: they were all ornamented with hearts. Next came the guests, mostly Kings and Queens, and among them Alice recognised the White Rabbit: it was talking in a hurried nervous manner, smiling at everything that was said, and went by without noticing her. Then followed the Knave of Hearts, carrying the King’s crown on a crimson velvet cushion; and, last of all this grand procession, came THE KING AND QUEEN OF HEARTS.

Alice was rather doubtful whether she ought not to lie down on her face like the three gardeners, but she could not remember ever having heard of such a rule at processions; ‘and besides, what would be the use of a procession,’ thought she, ‘if people had all to lie down upon their faces, so that they couldn’t see it?’ So she stood still where she was, and waited.

When the procession came opposite to Alice, they all stopped and looked at her, and the Queen said severely ‘Who is this?’ She said it to the Knave of Hearts, who only bowed and smiled in reply.

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