Surviving Summer Humidity 101
July 10, 2006
We’re in the midst of a doggedly hot summer and the mercury seems intent on setting new records every day. Having lived most of my life in the Deep South, I’ve grown rather accustomed to air so thick with humidity that you could wring it out, but that doesn’t mean I’ve grown to enjoy it. On sweltering days like these, I invite you to enjoy my favorite tricks for beating the heat.
1. Keep several bags of frozen peas handy. Frozen peas? Yes, indeed. They make fabulous ice bags on the cheap. I keep one by my chaise lounge and often pat myself down as I dig my heels into a good summer novel. All thawed? Just stow in the freezer for a few hours and they’re ready to go again. I’ll even stack a few bags under my head as a pillow. Tres chic? Maybe not. Tres comfy? Definitely!
2. Drink oodles and oodles of water. Help control costs by installing a filter on your kitchen tap and recycling empty water bottles. For a refreshing change of pace, fill a large pitcher with filtered water and ice, then add sliced cucumbers, lemons or oranges. Squeeze a few slices into the water and allow the rest to steep for a few hours. The delicately flavored water that results is delicious. Throw in a paper umbrella if you want to be deliciously over-the-top.
3. Make your own popsicles from fresh fruit purees and juices. My favorite involves 1 can of peaches and a half-cup of orange juice. Puree in a blender and pour into popsicle molds- freeze for a few hours until solid. Other fabulous choices: strawberries, cantaloupe and honeydew melons, kiwi, bananas, papaya, pineapple, lemon juice, blueberries, etc. The possibilities are endless!
4. Draw a luxurious bath. Showers are fabulous when you’re in a time crunch, but delight in a cool bath for a fabulously soothing ritual. Pour the water just a tad cooler than you normally prefer, add a cup of Epsoms salts and sprinkle the surface of the water with fresh blossoms from the garden. Grab a good book and lock the door- the summer heat will be the last thing on your mind.
5. I admit my bias on this next one, but it’s such a good tip that it deserves mentioning. When heading to the beach or pool, I take along our Cucumber Facial Toner. I pour the toner into a spray bottle (pick one up at any Target store) and chill it in the fridge for a few hours before tossing into my beach bag or cooler. When the sun really starts to heat things up, I spritz the toner over my face…it cools and refreshes and I love the smell of cucumbers in the summer.
6. Keep some grapes in the freezer. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover how refreshing those little spheres can be when they’re served up ice cold. This low-calorie treat can help you stay hydrated on the hottest of says, too!
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