Have You Tried Doing Nothing?
When I was visiting a friend in India a few years ago, I wanted to cram as many travel items into each day as possible. My friend, however, had a key understanding. They pointed out to me that most of the day every day the only people to be seen on the street were foreigners.
Anyone who has grown up in a hot climate understands the importance of slowing down, getting away from the sun, and taking it as easy as possible. It’s a matter of survival. If your instinct is to “don’t let the weather knock you down” and get through the heat instead, here’s how and why you should relax a bit to get through the heat.
Heat waves are hard on your body
First things first: It may seem like a no-brainer, but as the weather gets hotter, your body works harder to keep your core temperature down. At present, many parts of the country are coping with several days of temperatures that are predicted to exceed 100 degrees. The Red Cross says this means it’s time to “immediately take precautionary measures to avoid heat-related illnesses.” While your body is already working hard just to survive the heat, it makes sense for you to rest and take as many breaks as possible during the day.
You should also be aware of the signs of heat stroke and heat stroke.
Schedule events when it’s coolest
We cannot completely suspend our lives during the heat. What you can do is carefully plan your outdoor activities and activities.
As for your daily plans, get active in the early morning and late evening hours. Check the weather forecast weekly and plan your activities for the coolest time (and rest days for the hottest time). You don’t want to be stuck on much-needed groceries in the middle of a record-breaking summer day.
Take a siesta
While you’re planning your activities for when it’s coolest, plan your breaks for the most intense heat. If possible, take a nap during the hottest time of the day (in the afternoon, starting around 3:00 pm).
Most Americans don’t get to have a real siesta during the day, but you should at least plan on staying home in the middle or end of the day. You should not only strive to be indoors, but also try to find a source of air conditioning. Spending a few hours a day in air-conditioned air can prevent or reduce heat-related illnesses, according to the Red Cross .
Adjust your expectations
A major hurdle for all enthusiasts is the recognition that the heat will slow you down.
For example, let’s say you had ambitious fitness goals this summer. Of course, you can get used to exercising in the heat as your body learns to cool itself more efficiently. At the same time, the fact is that exercising in conditions of high temperature and humidity increases the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Therefore, in extreme heat, the Red Cross allows you to skip training.
It’s hard to slow down and give yourself a break, but in times of extreme heat, doing nothing is one of the best survival tactics.
Remember These Thermal Safety Tips
When it comes to taking care of yourself and checking on others, make sure:
- Stay hydrated . Stick to water and minimize sugary and alcoholic drinks.
- Get electrolytes . You lose sodium from the body when you sweat, but a normal meal is usually enough to replenish it.
- Consult your doctor. Ask if any of your medications might make you more susceptible to extreme heat. They should have a guide to help you drink water properly and stay cool during these harsh summer months.