Keeping cool in summer

Here are some tips to help you keep cool and reduce your air-conditioning costs at the same time. Remember: the less you use your air conditioner the less you contribute to global warming.

1. Use summer fabrics. As a rule of thumb natural materials keep you fresher than synthetic materials. Wear clothes made of cotton, linen, hemp and ramie. Avoid nylon, polyester, rayon and acrylic.
2. Take a cool shower. Many people turn on the air conditioner as soon as they get home. Instead of this try taking a cool shower first. It will make you feel refreshed and you probably won’t need to turn the air conditioner after it.
3. Freeze it. Keep your lotions and face toners in the fridge. Apply them after taking a cool shower to prolong the effect or in the morning to start your day fresh.
4. Drink it cold. Keep bottles of water in the fridge to maintain you cool and hydrated at all times.
5. Eat salads. Salads are not only healthy but also the best choice for you in the summer. They don’t add extra heat to your body (as a hot soup would) and also preparing them doesn’t require you to be in front of the stove in most cases. This reduces your energy consumption and the kitchen won’t be hot. For salads and other summer food ideas you can click in this link.
6. Make shaved ice. If you like to do things from scratch try making shaved ice at home. It is also a great activity to do with kids, and it will cool you right away.
7. Fill a spray bottle. You can fill it with mineral water or rose water and use it anytime for a quick refresh on your face.
8. Use fans. Opt for ceiling fans and portable fans before you decide to turn on the air conditioner. At night, if the air outside is cooler than the air inside place the fan in front of the window, facing inside, and turn it on to refresh the room. You can also combine it with the use of a cooler.
9. Turn it off. Make sure your appliances and electronic devices such as computers are turned off when you are not using them. Also turn off the lights of the rooms that you are not using.
10. Change to fluorescent bulbs. Replace your incandescent light bulbs for fluorescent bulbs, they save energy and emit less heat.
11. Plant a tree. Plant trees in front of windows and areas around the house that receive the most sunshine. Choose deciduous trees as they will provide shade in the summer and will allow the sunlight to pass through in the winter.
12. Stay in the first floor. Try to do your activities in the first floor at least during the hottest hours. This is because the second floor receives more sunshine which makes it hotter and unbearable for you.