Beating The Heat

Heatwaves are hitting every part of the globe. Chances are where ever you are, you're hot right now. Part of our philosophy here at hey-goodlooking.com is to take the time to take care of ourselves. Last week we spoke about mindfulness and this week we are getting a little more topical and talk about some ways to help your body cope with this extreme weather that we all seem to be experiencing. 

One of the first things that you can do is dress for the weather. Silk has natural thermo regulating qualities that help your body stay both cool and warm. Cotton of course feels light and perfect on a sweltering day. At hey-goodlooking.com we use only 100% natural fabrics but there are many blends and synthetics that can help keep you comfortable. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing that lets your skin breathe. Dark colors absorb heat, so stick with lighter shades. Wear a wide-brimmed hat in the sun to keep your head cool and use plenty of sunscreen to avoid sunburn, which can increase your skin temperature and make it harder to stay cool.

The second thing is hydrate. Now drinking a glass of water is one way. Fill up a fun colored tumbler and give yourself a goal time frame to finish the glass. Flavor the water with fruit or some other non-sugar flavoring. One of my favorite ways to hydrate is to eat fruit and vegetables. Certain fruits and vegetables contain plenty of water in addition to healthful nutrients. Watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, peaches and pineapples are fruits with high-water content. Water-rich vegetables include cucumbers, leafy greens, radishes, celery, zucchini and tomatoes. 

By the time you feel thirsty, you’re already slightly dehydrated. Sip water steadily throughout the day and drink more fluids than usual when the weather is hot, especially if you’re active. There’s something to the old “eight glasses a day” adage. For adults, a half-gallon — 64 ounces, or eight (8-ounce) glasses — is recommended. You may need more if you’re exercising or the weather is especially hot.