Summer is the perfect time for getting outside, but the heat can make outdoor activities unbearable. When we get too hot things become much more difficult, and in the worst case scenario, our health can fail. The heat will zap your energy quick if you aren’t prepared. Here are six great tips for beating the heat this summer.

1. Hydrate: Our bodies are mainly made up of water. We need to replenish the water that we lose by drinking more. When we are hydrated our body can sweat and regulate our body temperature efficiently. Keep drinking water throughout the day to stay hydrated. If you drink a large amount of water all at once, your body won’t have time to absorb it and it’ll pass straight through you. Other fluids are ok to consume, but things like sodas and coffee can actually dehydrate you. Water is always the best option.  If you don’t like the taste of water, then add flavors to it with fruits, herbs, or water enhancers like Mio.
2. Throw a Pool Party: Stay cool by playing in the water. If you don’t have a pool nearby, then get creative with water balloon, water guns, sprinklers, and slip n’ slides. Natural water sources are also a great option. Oceans, lakes, rivers, and ponds are perfect for cooling off. Be mindful of the wildlife that may be around, and never drink the water. There’s no reason why you can’t have a good time playing in some water.
3. Stay in the Shade: Avoid the heat by staying out of the sun. Wear hats or stay under umbrellas to keep the sun’s rays off of you. Solar radiation can make the environment feel 10-15 degrees hotter. Beat the heat by staying under a shaded tree and taking it easy. Keep your body temperature lower by not exerting yourself while in the heat. Even though you are indoors, the sun’s powerful rays can still heat you up. Put up blinds, and tints to keep the radiant heat out of your home. Tint your home and car windows to stay cool through the summer.
4. Make Use of Fans: Naturally, everyone drops the thermostats temperature with the AC, but don’t forget about using fans. Ceiling fans are excellent at cooling you down by pushing your body heat away from you. If you don’t have a ceiling fan, then floor fans and handheld fans can also provide a significant amount of heat relief.
5. Eat Cool Foods: Summer isn’t the time for hot soups. Grab some popsicles and head outside. When you ingest cooler foods, your internal body temperature actually drops. Ice cream and frozen treats are a great option for the summer months. To keep things healthy, you can make your own frozen desserts. To make your own popsicles, freeze some fresh squeezed orange juice and add in strawberry slices to a mold. It’ll already be super sweet, but you can always sweeten it more with some agave.
6. Early Mornings/Late Evenings: Don’t go out in the heat of the day. Use that time to do indoor activities to stay in the shade and air conditioning. Do your gardening and outdoor exercising in the early morning hours or late in the evening. Go outside before the sun comes up and after the sun goes down. You’ll avoid sunburn and overheating by being smart about when you go outside.

Hot heat waves won’t stop you when you use these cooling techniques. Stay smart and cool by avoiding the sun’s hot rays, and cooling off with a splash of water and a cold drink. Stay hydrated and always use sun protection when you are outside.