Playing it cool: 7 ways to beat the heat

So the temps are skyrocketing, and you’re sweating buckets. Not exactly the plan you had for chilling out this summer. Not to worry: We’ve gathered seven tips to help you stay cool in the rising heat:

1. Drink plenty of water

In summer, your body loses a maximum amount of water through perspiration. Replenish several times a day (drink at least 2 more glasses than usual), and add more juices and fruit—watermelon, grapefruit, pineapple, pears and citrus fruits are not only cooling, but contain high water content.

2. Slather on the sunblock

Not only will it keep you protected from the sun’s harmful rays and help to prevent sunburn, it will also keep you looking younger over time. Bonus: By keeping the burn at bay, your skin will stay cooler. Use an entire ounce (about the size of a golf ball) for optimum protection.

3. Lighten up

Your plate, that is. Research shows heavy foods take longer to digest, interfering with the body’s cooling process. Think salads, sandwiches and soup broths…you’ll stay trim while gaining energy for outdoor activities.

4. Go with the flow

Dressing in breezy, lightweight fabrics that offer plenty of movement—cotton, linen and gauze—are the best bet for staying cool outdoors on hot summer days. Similarly, be sure to wear light colors—dark colors absorb more light, trapping heat in the process.

5. Get a trim

Fact: The shorter your hair, the cooler your body. Chic bobs (ladies) and short crew cuts (men) are great options for summer. Ladies: if you’re dedicated to your length, try of-the-moment “sloppy buns” and sleek ponytails. A mentholated or tea tree oil shampoo can also help keep you cool during the dog days of summer.

6. Take shelter indoors

At least between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun’s ray’s are the strongest. Cool off instead with ceiling fans that help circulate the cool, comfortable air your home comfort system provides.

7. Install a Programmable Thermostat

The days of set-it-and-forget-it home comfort control are over. Newer thermostats, like Lennox’ icomfort Wi-Fi touchscreen thermostat—lets users control their home’s temperature from a smart a phone, tablet or other web-enabled device-from anywhere in the world.