How To Feel Comfortable In 35+ Degree Weather
Well, hello! This short read was written by a heat hater, and below you’ll find a list of tips and tricks that have helped me when working in, (or simply being in) 35+ degree summer weather. In the past, I’ve struggled with weather-triggered anxiety made bad by really hot days. Since hot days are all we face during Okanagan summers, these are the things I’ve added into my routine to help me enjoy the summer weather!
Think About What You’re Wearing
Although I’m assuming you’re not planning to wear a wool coat and knit mittens in the heat, there are still specific cuts, lengths, and materials that can really help you out. Not to be too TMI, but I am one of those people that gets really sweaty, no matter the weather. I’ve learnt that one of the best things for me to wear to work in the summer is a dress with sleeves that don’t touch my armpits, goes to around the knee, and is a light material. Another great option is wearing linen pants or shorts. These give your body as much room to breathe as possible, which I’ve found very helpful. When it comes to materials, stick to anything linen, cotton, or summer mixes- you can wear light colours to help lessen the heat as well. Wearing the right clothing has become a HUGE part of helping me enjoy being outdoors this year!
Use a Cooling Towel
After discovering these cooling towels on Amazon last year, I find it hard to live without them. You keep them stored in their portable little container with some water, and when you need to cool off you remove the towel, shake it, and it immediately turns cold! (Even if the water it’s in has turned hot.) You can then tie it around you forehead, neck, waist, etc. It’s awesome! Not to mention that they’re less than $15, and their case can clip onto your bag so you don’t have to carry it!
Bring Your Own Shade
Now, although most restaurants and wineries provide shade, places get busy in the summer! Almost every time I play a show, the same thing happens: I’m playing with two people in front of me because the patches of shade are on opposite corners of the lawn, each with 30 people huddled under a patch of shade or a canopy. Personally, I think it’s funny, and everyone is always jealous of the two people front and centre because they brought their own umbrellas. (If you don’t like umbrellas there are also portable canopies, tents, etc.!)
Bring a Portable Fan
My mother is a wedding photographer, and I have very clear memories of her returning from a 40+ degree wedding with a portable fan clutched in her hand, claiming that it saved many peoples day…again. Portable fans are seriously a lifesaver. I’ve linked one here that has multiple speeds, is rechargeable, and has a misting effect. Although I love to root for these portable fans, it’s definitely not a bad idea to keep a regular fan with you if you can! They’re small to fold up, and you don’t have to risk the heart-breaking moment where it’s dead on the day you really, really need it.
Drink!
Yes, drink! But, keep in mind what you’re drinking. Alcohol dehydrates your body, and in the summer you really have to keep up on your water intake. Being dehydrated is one of the WORST feelings when it gets bad, especially when it’s an easy thing to avoid! You knew this was going to be on the list: DRINK WATER! How everyone drinks their water is different, but I’ve found that using a water bottle that keeps my water cold really helps. I only like my water cold, so doing something as small as packing cold water ensures that I’ll actually drink it.
Alright, I’m all done here. I hope one of these resonated with you, and if it didn’t then, well, that’s okay! It’s helped me remember to take care of myself in the heat! Have fun in the hot weather- don’t overheat!
Thanks for reading my brains thoughts,
Nevaeh