Keep Your Cool When the Temps Soar

The other night at 9:30, the temperature here in Dallas was 100 degrees. We’ve been setting records all summer for the highest low temperature in a day and the most triple digit temperature days. This weather has parched more than just the lakes and lawns around here, people are feeling the misery too. Unexplained blue moods and waves of weariness have hit most of us as this heat grinds on. You don’t have to wither with the plants and grass--here are ten tips for keeping your cool when the weather doesn’t.

10. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. And keep those electrolytes in balance with foods like bananas and raisins for potassium, yogurt for calcium, and avocado and wheat germ for magnesium. Most of us don’t need extra sodium, but if you do, a handful of peanuts will do the trick.

9. Avoid big meals and heavy foods. Eat small meals. Not much protein. Take advantage of all the fruits and vegetables available now. Eat your large meal at lunch and light cool foods for dinner. You'll feel lighter and more cheerful.

8. Tepid shower or bath. Cold showers cause a heat response in the body and begin a cycle of sweating and droopiness.

7. Go outside even if only 15 minutes a day. Go out early for a relaxing walk. Air-conditioning is nice, but too much time indoors can cause heat-induced ‘cabin fever’.

6. Select lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing in natural fibers. Or wear garments made from materials that wick moisture from the body.

5. Use your fans. A/Cs can be set at higher temperatures with good air movement.

4. Close the drapes. The US Department of Energy says that blocking the sun can reduce the temps in a room by 45%.

3. Sit quietly and imagine yourself on a snowy mountain top. Or read a book set in a cold climate. Oddly enough, thinking cool will make you cool and lift your mood.

2. Watch an I Love Lucy rerun or go see a funny movie. Laughing will improve your mood. Save the heavy stuff for cooler weather.

1. Call a friend who makes you laugh and lifts your mood. Even better, take her to lunch or the movies.