How to Stay Cool This Summer When You Have to Stay Indoors

Written by: Rita Magallona

Following the Enhanced Community Quarantine gets tricky in the middle of summer. With windswept beaches, cool mountain retreats, and air-conditioned malls off limits, it seems like we have no choice but to swelter indoors to avoid catching COVID-19.

Good thing we’ve put together this list to help you beat the summer heat. No expensive air conditioning required!

8 Tips for Staying Cool Indoors in Hot Weather

1. Block off the sun, literally.

Use curtains or blinds to block sunlight from coming in through your windows. Sunlight produces heat when it comes into contact with solid objects or even air molecules.

But make sure that enough light still comes in for you to see with. White curtains are the best way to keep out the sun’s heat while still letting enough light in to illuminate your home.

2. Turn on your electric fans

An electric fan can move the air to give you a cooling breeze. You can make it even cooler by putting a bucket of ice in front of the fan. The ice will make the air cool down as it is blown by the fan.

Make sure to turn on the fan only when there are people in the room. Remember that the electric fan’s motor will overheat when left running for too long, which makes the room feel warmer and can pose a potential fire hazard.

3. Open windows at night

Nights are often cooler than days. So, while you keep your windows and curtains closed during the day to keep the sunlight and heat out, open them at night to let the cooler breeze in. Be sure about your security, though.

4. Go out to your backyard or balcony

Nothing helps cool you down than going out of the house. But this is very limited because of the quarantine being enforced. Nevertheless, go outside as far as you are allowed to.

If you have a balcony or backyard, go there. You can also visit common areas in your condominium, provided management allows. Just make sure to wear a mask and keep a safe distance from other people.

5. Sleep on lower floors

If you live in a two-storey (or more) house, you will find the lower floors cooler than the upper floors. If you can, sleep in a room or even the living room on the lower floors for a more comfortable rest.

6. Drink plenty of water

Drinking water and other cool drinks will help keep your body hydrated and your body temperature regulated. This is also a refreshingly enjoyable way to keep cool. Another way to stay hydrated is to eat water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges.

7. Wear light clothes

Dark-colored clothes absorb and store heat. So, wear light-colored clothes made of cotton or linen to let your body breathe well and let the air flow through.

8.Take a cold shower

Can’t go swimming? No problem! There’s nothing more refreshing than a cool shower. If you’re feeling uncomfortable at night, take a bath just before going to bed.

If all else fails and you resort to turning on your air conditioning, no need to feel guilty about this treat. Don’t let the combination of the hot weather and isolation get to you. Here are some mental wellness tips to help you keep your cool, literally and figuratively. Remember, stay indoors, stay clean, and stay healthy!