Making it my business: 8 tips for beating the ungodly and horrible heat

Actually, it’s the heat AND the humidity.

June 12, 2008; 9:04 AM • by Valerie Catrow

You may have noticed that Richmond has forgotten it is located in a temperate climate and instead thinks it’s fixed IN THE CENTER OF THE SUN. Seriously, we’ve had almost an entire week of 100 degree weather. Ha, and I’m telling you that like you weren’t here suffocating along with me.

Even though it’s supposed to be cooler today (a chilly 88 degrees, kids!) we all know it’s just a matter of time before Richmond decides to show off again. So, here are 8 easy ways to beat the heat…

1. Don’t be a hero.

It’s hot. Everyone knows it. Now is not the time to see who can win the “I didn’t turn my air conditioner on until the last week in August!” game. We are all sticky and crabby and could use a constant flow of cool air. Flip the switch, buddy.

2. Give your oven a break.

When it’s 100+ *outside*, the last thing you need is a big old box of 450 degrees *inside.* Give the complicated dinners a rest until it cools off and opt for light and easy stuff like salads and cold sandwiches.

3. Turn off your computer when you leave the house.

A lot of us have trouble doing it, but seriously, have you ever touched a computer that’s been running all day? It’s like molten lava. Trust me, leave it off and your bedroom or office will be significantly cooler when you get home from work at the end of the day.

4. Go to the movies.

I worked in a movie theater for two summers, decked out in a long sleeve shirt, black Dickies, and a vest, and not once did I sweat while in that building. Those places pump the AC like none other. Take advantage of it. It’s almost worth the $9 just to get in the door.

5. Loose the booze.

I know that everyone loves a nice, cold beer when it’s sweltering out. But, you might not know that alcohol is a diuretic. And the last thing you want to do when you’re sweating buckets is to put something in your body that worsens dehydration. And ok, I know this is Richmond and you all *need* your PBR, so if you can’t loose the booze, at least lay off the caffeine because it does the same thing.

6. Don’t shower until after you’ve stopped sweating.

Taking a steamy shower after sweating buckets is just going to keep your core temperature at an uncomfortable level. Drink some water, splash some cold water on your face, and wait until you feel a bit more yourself before walking into a small area filled with rushing hot water and steam.

7. Forget the ice, go with rice.

Sometimes the only thing that will help is something cool against your skin. Ice is messy. Instead, fill a cotton sock with rice, tie it shut, and let it sit in the freezer for a couple hours before bedtime. When you’re ready to turn in, tuck the sock in between your bed sheets to keep cool through the night.

8. Watch Christmas/Winter-time movies.

You don’t need to save The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe for when it’s chilly out. Seriously, after almost three hours of nothing but ice and snow, your brain will be demanding your own snuggly lion to keep warm.

Did I miss anything? Leave them in the comments.

(Got a question or suggestion? Send them to val@rvanews.com)

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