Malaysia has always been a hot and humid, and while most of us complain about it, it’s something we’ve all grown accustomed to—until the recent heatwave where the temperature rose to a sweltering 38.5 degrees Celsius in some areas.
The bad news is, according to recent reports, it’s expected to last until June. If you’re in the city centre, the weather really hasn’t been as bad since there has been showers and downpours. But regardless, if you’re feeling the heat, these are some of the things you can do to stay cool without relying on air conditioning (and risk high electricity bills).
1. Change your pillows
Opt for a feather or down pillow and use a cotton pillowcase. Synthetic ones will retain heat.
2. Drink chrysanthemum tea
It’s known to have cooling effects. Conversely, avoid drinks with caffeine as they increase the metabolic heat in the body.
3. Wear the right clothes
If the sun is blazing outside, it’s best to choose light-coloured cotton clothes as synthetic fibres can trap heat whereas cotton absorbs perspiration and you’ll feel cooler after it has evaporated. Additionally, light colours reflect the sun’s radiation.
4. Don’t take cold showers
As refreshing as it can be, it’s not without aftereffects that you won’t appreciate such as how your body will generate heat afterwards to make up for the heat loss. Take a shower that is below body temperature instead.
5. Wash your wrists
On the other hand (pun unintended), run your wrists under a cold tap for five seconds every few hours. There’s a main vein that passes through this area and doing so can help cool the body. You can also try applying ice packs to other pulse points such as the neck, elbows, ankles and behind the knees.
6. Disconnect at night
Every little effort counts and completely unplugging your gadgets and other small appliances (especially in the bedroom) from the sockets can help reduce the heat in the house as they can still emit heat even when they’re turned off.
Related stories:
| SHARE THE STORY | |
| Explore More |
