Stay Cool Naturally: Green Ways To Beat The Heat

Extreme heat and cold are associated with 17 causes of death globally. Yet the days are getting hotter, and the world has just experienced its most heated April, extending an 11-month streak.

The continent I belong to is even worse. Several parts of Asia are simmering with temperatures crossing 50 degrees Celsius (122°F). The Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) said that each month since June 2023 has been the planet's hottest on record compared with the corresponding month in previous years.

As exposure to heat increases, effective and sustainable cooling methods are essential. Here are climate-friendly cooling ways I choose to maintain my family's health and well-being in this scorching heat.

Hydration: Drinking lots is crucial in hot weather, as you sweat throughout the day. The liquids you lose must be substituted to prevent dehydration. In summer, I keep fresh juice, detox water, and herbal teas handy. This helps regulate my body temperature.

Avoid caffeine, soft drinks, and alcohol: Remember to avoid caffeine, soft drinks, and alcohol. Caffeine can worsen dehydration, and alcoholic beverages can cause dehydration, especially in hot weather. Research shows that using soft drinks to rehydrate can make dehydration worse and lead to more kidney injuries. I stick to plain water for my hydration needs.

Stick to light, balanced, regular meals: Choose fruits and vegetables with high water content. Cucumbers, watermelon, salads, strawberries, celery, and lettuce will keep you hydrated. Soups, smoothies, fresh juices, and stews contribute to hydration levels.

Clothing and accessories: One natural way to stay cool is to choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothes. Organic fibers such as cotton or linen are my best pick. Keep your hair tied, or try a pony or bun. Use light-colored fabrics. Keep it minimal and prioritize comfort.

Self-cooling techniques: Cool your pulse points if you feel uneasiness, which is common in summer. Heat escapes through the skin, so the more skin you can cool down, the better. Apply cold packs or wet cloths to your wrists, neck, and temples. Take cool showers or baths to help lower body temperature. I soak my feet in cold water to cool down. However, ensure you gradually cool the body. Standing in front of an open freezer or fridge may not be the best option.

Home adjustments: Close blinds and curtains at noon. This can restrict heat entering from windows. Also, seal gaps around doors and windows. During late evenings, open windows on opposite sides for cross-ventilation.

Use bulbs and fans strategically: Incandescent bulbs can produce heat, so choose LED instead. Utilize fans strategically. Place them to improve air circulation. Position it to blow air out during the day and draw cooler air in at night. ​​It can be a great environmentally-friendly cooling technologies.

Use natural fiber bedding: Linen and cotton are my go-to options in summer. These sheets are breathable and help keep cool at night. Freeze your sheets in a plastic bag for a few minutes before bed.

Airy corner for quality sleep: Choose a breathable and well-ventilated corner for a good night's sleep. Consider sleeping on lower floors, which tend to be more relaxed.

Plants are undeniably the best companions. Making your home a place of respite during hot weather is crucial. Plants and trees can provide shade and naturally reduce indoor temperatures. Try these green home cooling ideas to feel the difference. I have them in every corner of my home. They lift my mood and have a calming effect on the whole place. Green roofs and walls can also insulate your home against heat and are among the eco-conscious cooling methods.

Adjust your schedule: Heat affects people of all ages, especially those with chronic health conditions. Avoid going out during the hottest hours of the day, but sometimes, that must be done. When out in direct sunlight, remember to protect your skin with sunscreen. Use hats and shade whenever possible.

Limit physical activity when scorching outside: When planning your day, consider the temperature. Limit physical activity to when it's cooler. You can run at sunrise or sunset. Exercising during blazing midday could be fatal. You risk dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.

Always carry your water bottle when going out: Drink lots of water while playing or exercising and take more breaks. A shower afterward will help you cool down and relax.

Try ice cooling: Ice can cool your surroundings. Fill a large bowl with ice, place it before the fan, and enjoy the breezy air. The coolness spreads around the room as the fan blows over the ice, giving you an instant green cooling solution.

Hang a damp sheet: An old yet effective technique is to hang a damp sheet before an open window. As the air passes through the wet sheet, it cools the room. It is a simple, economical and a zero-emission cooling techniques.

Awnings: Installing awnings over windows is another great way to keep heat away and create a shady barrier. Awnings also help reduce UV rays. They come in various materials and types, so you can pick one that complements your home's aesthetics. It is a popular eco-friendly heat management technique.

Install a metal stand at the window: You can also install a metal stand at the window to create a dedicated plant space. Placing greenery on this stand will add charm to your space. The plants help cool the atmosphere naturally. It adds a refreshing and vibrant touch to your decor, promoting a serene environment.

Explore nearby public places: If it's too hot inside, head to the nearest cafe, shopping mall, or library. There, you can spend time reading, working, or shopping. Public places are a great way to enjoy air conditioning at no extra cost.

Know the risks: Heat can seriously affect your health. Common issues in summer are heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excess water, salt, and sugar through sweating. Heat stroke occurs when the body's temperature becomes dangerously high and can no longer cool itself. Both can be fatal.

Kids are more at risk: Kids are more vulnerable to high temperatures. Take extra precautions for them. I, for example, limit my child's playground time to the evenings. I also ensure my toddler is in comfy clothes and drinks enough water.

Check on your neighbors and family members: People feel trapped indoors. Hiding from heat can also lead to social isolation. Be sure to utilize mornings and evenings as times of connection and activity. Notice if you might be feeling limited or burdened by these adjustments. As a way to validate these frustrations, in your way, get involved with efforts to slow down climate change.

Due to climate change, the world is getting hotter, and heat waves are becoming frequent. This is putting people's health and well-being at risk. Prepare as best you can and try and opt for a low-impact cooling solutions. These precautions, plants, and strategies help me and my family stay comfortable, reducing heat, environmental impact, and energy consumption. I hope wherever you are, you are also finding ways to minimize the everyday discomfort of a warming climate.