Cool ways to stay cool

It’s pretty hard to ignore the heat that’s been oppressing us for the past few weeks. As that old religious phrase goes, this too shall pass. But until it does here are some ways to keep cool without cranking up the air conditioning and needlessly gouging Mother Nature’s resources.

• Cool your pulse points: The neck, wrists, tops of the feet, inner ankles, inner thighs and temples on the head are all pulse points. When cooled they relay the sensation thoughout the body, bringing down the core temperature. Use a moistened hankerchief of ice cubes.

• Stay hydrated: Hydration helps ensure perspiration to keep the core body temperature down. The most effective hydrating drinks are water, herbal teas and natural juices. Coconut juice both hydrates and helps balance electrolytes.

• Eat spicy foods: Spicy foods increase perspiration and blood circula- tion, which help cool core temperatures.

• Spritz away the heat: Keep a water-filled spray bottle in the fridge and use it throughout the day. Take it with you when driving to help lay off use of the car’s A/C and the gallons of gas that crank it.

• Indulge in peppermint: Peppermint mints and gum can offer a cooling sensation, and a dab of peppermint oil on pulse points helps the body cool down quickly.

Info: livinggreenandsavingenergy.com