Getting a Good Night Sleep on a Hot Summer Night

Recently, much of the country has been experiencing heat waves. In some cases, these are so severe that people are having trouble sleeping. 

 One of my favorite methods of keeping cool at night (and not having to have the air conditioning on) is to fill a bowl with water every morning and putting it in the freezer. Before going to bed, take the ice out and place it on a big pan, so when the ice melts the water won't run onto the floor.  Then place the  pan in front of a fan. The fan will circulate the air that the ice cools throughout the entire room. And, even after the ice melts, the water will be cold and continue to cool off the room.

 

Following are a few more ideas that could help you get the sleep you need, even when it's extremely hot out:

 

Sleep lower: Because heat rises, if your house has more than one story, sleeping on a lower level can help you sleep better.

 

Make sure there's good air-circulation: Fans help you feel cooler by causing perspiration to evaporate more quickly.

 

Avoid heat build-up during the day: Keep the blinds closed, and do anything you can to keep as much of the sun's heat out during the day.

 

Take a cool shower: This will lower your body's temperature and help you fall asleep. It may be helpful to take a cool shower again in the middle of the night if you wake up covered in perspiration.

 

There are many other ways to stay cool at night. Whatever you do, make sure to take care of yourself and your family. And drink plenty of water, so that you don't become dehydrated.

Patriotism

The month of July is full of barbecues, parades, fairs, outdoor concerts, and fireworks. Of course, much of these are patriotic celebrations of the founding of our country; others are simply fun ways to enjoy the summer. 

These events and celebrations can have many positive affects on our health. Gatherings such as barbecues and picnics can help reduce stress as we interact with people we like in laid-back circumstances. And because stress is often a factor in bad health, these outings can be quite beneficial to our health. 

However, they also present some health risks. While enjoying the company of friends and family, try to avoid over-eating, or eating just because there is so much food available. Simply staying conscious of how much and what you are eating can help prevent this.  Also try replacing some of the less-healthy barbecue items with healthy alternatives. That's not to say you can't indulge a little in your favorite barbecue staple, but maybe try replacing potato chips with a side of vegetables. Or instead of grilling up a third hot-dog, try some grilled pineapple or watermelon.

Also, it is very beneficial to your health to enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking or biking. These provide good exercise--strengthening the body and reducing stress. Other summer outdoors activities, such as parades, fairs, and concerts, improve health by providing necessary relaxation. One should avoid, however, the health risks associated with the out of doors by staying well-hydrated and applying ample sunscreen. 

I hope all of you enjoy your patriotic and summer activities this month