Wednesday, March 24, 2010

STAY COOL THIS SUMMER

Scorching summer heat can sometimes be very intolerable. Not only does it lead to a series of minor and major health problems, the high temperature during the season can increase your energy bills as well. There are many ways to stay cool in the summer season, prevent a heat stroke and save a lot of money on utility bills. The following tips given below can help you keep the heat at bay, naturally.

Try These Environmentally-Amicable Alternatives to Keep Your Home Cool-

· Install heat-reflecting sheets on windows. These reduce glare and UV rays and cool the house by 2-3° C
· Open and close windows according to the change in temperature. During the day, close the sun-facing windows. During the evening, open the doors and windows to allow air ventilation. Early morning is a good time to let some fresh oxygen into your home
· Reduce indoor humidity by minimizing mid-day washing, showering and cooking. Switch on the exhaust fans to help extract moist air. Unless you absolutely need them, turn off lights and any heat generating appliances
· Grow creepers on the exterior walls of your house. Air pockets between the wall and the creepers act as insulators
· Paint the walls white
· Indoor plants also helps in bringing down the temperature inside the house
· Install lattices (Jaali) for easy air ventilation
· Don’t put lamps, TV or other heat generating appliances next to your air-conditioner
· Keep the roof and walls clear of dirt; the whiter the surface, the better it reflects heat
· Instead of concrete or marble flooring, think wood, ceramic or slate tiles. While wood is an insulator, ceramics and slate will keep the place cool.

Prepare Yourself

· Take A Shower: A cool shower will help a great deal in combating the scorching summer heat. Take a cool shower at least twice a day. Fill a spray bottle with rose water and use it while bathing. Cool essential oils also help soothe your body

· Wear Light Clothes: Wear light, loose fitting and airy clothes, especially when you go out on a hot sunny day. Cotton is the best natural fabric for summer. Avoid wearing clothes made of synthetic stuff, like nylon and polyester. Silk is a strict no-no fabric for summers

· Protect Yourself From Sun: Do not forget to wear sun block while going out. It can be a sunscreen moisturizer, lotion or cream. The product should contain SPF, which protects the body from harmful UV rays

· Eat Less: Instead of three heavy meals in a day, inculcate the habit of eating five to six small meals, during summer. Eat food high in water content, like fresh fruits and vegetables. Water melon is the best fruit for summers

· Drink Plenty Of Fluids: Drink plenty of water and fluids like fruit juices. Avoid aerated drinks like soda and cola. Do not consume sugary drinks, as their high sugar content can lead to dehydration. Instead, consume juices made of fresh fruits and vegetables. Sports beverages are also good to keep your energy levels high

· Exercise: Light intensity exercises can help you a great deal in staying cool. Indulge in exercise either early in the morning or late in the evening. You will sweat during the workout, which is a natural way of cooling down the body.

1 comment:

  1. I am already feeling cool after reading this article. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete