Summers in B.C. can get pretty hot! Follow these tips to help keep cool! 

Choose the Right Clothing

Wear loose-fitting clothing, preferably cotton as it's more breathable. Lighter coloured clothes also helps to reflect more of the sun's light, while darker coloured clothing tends to absorb more, meaning it will be warmer. 

Consider wearing hats with a wide brim and sunglasses to keep the sun out of your face. 

Eat Cooling Foods

Eat foods like salads loaded with fresh fruits, smoothies blended with extra ice, and make sandwiches or wraps so that you don't need to turn on your stove or oven. ⁠

Load up on fruits with high water content such as strawberries and of course watermelon to keep you hydrated. Speaking of hydration... 

Drink Lots of Water

Stay hydrated and drink lots of water and fluids throughout the day. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages or caffeine as they act as diuretics and can dehydrate you. 

Try coconut water for a boost in electrolytes, and try adding in mint leaves in your iced drinks for an instant cooling sensation! ⁠

Snack Up!

Avoid eating large meals, try to eat lighter meals and include more snacks instead - healthy snacks of course. Digesting big, heavy meals requires more energy and can end up heating you up more. 

For healthy snacks, try fresh berries and yogurt, slices of apples or oranges, trail mix, boiled eggs, or a whole grain muffin. There are lots of great options!

Find Shade

If you're spending the day outdoors, whether you're relaxing at a beach or park, going for a hike, or even having an active day on the water. Try your best to find shade every now and then! If there's no shade available, create your own. Beach umbrellas are great, take breaks in the shade when hiking, and if you're in direct sun, a hat is highly recommended! 

Cold Water

Some other tricks is to make use of cold water! Add cold water in a spray bottle and mist yourself for instant relief. Wet a small towel and rest it on your shoulders, neck or put it against your forehead. Little things like this will help give you some relief from the heat. If all else fails, remember that a cool shower goes a long way!