The temperatures are soaring here in the Southern United States. I break into a sweat just getting into the car. Our yard is beginning to look like the Sahara. It's enough to make your blood boil. When people get hot, they tend to get cranky. What is a person to do? Just stay cool, literally and figuratively. To prevent physical heat, stay indoors during the hottest times of the day. If you exercise outdoors, try to do so in the mornings or evenings. Even late evenings can be sweltering, so stay hydrated and dress appropriately. If you must be outside during the heat of the day, wear light clothing and drink plenty of fluids. Even working indoors can lead to heat fatigue. If possible, sit away from the direct heat of windows or pull shades closed. If the air conditioning does not keep you cool, place electric fans in the area to keep you cool. For the psychological heat, take a deep breath and picture yourself in a cool and relaxing place. Imagine that you are sitting on a mountain top, with a crisp breeze blowing, looking across the countryside. Picture yourself swimming in the ocean, or a luxurious pool. Visualize yourself sitting on the balcony at a ski lodge up in the mountains. Feel the cool breeze blowing on your face as you sip hot apple cider. For just a moment take a mini mental vacation to a place where the temperatures are cooler, both inside and out!
