Summertime Heatwave

Summertime in Georgia promises to be warm every year without fail. This year, however, it seems determined to prove just how hot it is capable of becoming. With temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit and precious little rain, I think we can safely say the word "Heatwave" and not be exaggerating.

The heat affects the plants, the water supply, the financial resources, ....and our bodies. Those who are unable to escape the heat can really suffer some ill effects indeed! So what can you do about it? Yes indeed, there ARE some options.

HYDRATE! Water intake is one of the most important things you can do for yourself to stay well during this time of year. Your body needs plenty of water regularly, but during the summer months, dehydration is even MORE likely, especially if your water intake habits don't increase from previous months. You have to have that water, so don't forego it! I personally choose water (with lemon of course!) everytime I go to a restaurant or eat away from home. That does a couple things: 1) it lets me taste my food and enjoy it without saturating my tastebuds with sugars, and 2) it keeps me drinking water when my tendency is to think about how good something else might taste. Find what works for you and implement into your own habits.

CHLOROPHYLL! Yes, its the stuff that makes plants green, and its the stuff that can help your body cool off on the inside. Take advantage of this wonderful benefit while enjoying the refreshing taste of spearmint in your water. That's not the only reason to incorporate it into your regimen. For more information on this, check out the previous blog post on chlorophyll.

CHANGE AIR FILTERS!
Or clean them, whichever style you have. Did you know if the filters are clogged, the air isn't going to flow well? Sure you did, but you might not have considered that affecting the heat in the house during the summertime, right? Go check yours and see. It can make a difference on how efficient your cooling system operates, and your pocketbook might even appreciate that.

DRESS WELL!
No I don't mean to put on your dressy clothes. I mean dress in loose fitting clothing, preferably a light colored cotton fabric so that air can circulate. This allows the air to wick away sweat, which gives a cooling sensation too.

AVOID CAFFEINE/ALCOHOL/EXCESSIVE SUGARS!
Most people don't want to hear that these promote dehydration, but they do!

Whatever methods work for you, implement then and keep yourself safe during this hot summer weather. Go inside air-conditioned shops from time to time while you are in town to help you cool down from the heat while you are outside. Take along a little spray bottle of water and mist yourself whenever possible. Change up your exercise routine to include more swimming. Be smart and stay cool!