6 Genius Ways to Keep Cool When You Don’t Have A/C

Despite what our southern neighbours would like to believe, Canada is not a constant snowstorm – in fact, right now it’s a lot more like the inside of an oven.

If you live in a city, there’s a fair chance that your air conditioner is questionable at best and non-existent at worst.

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The almighty A/C is an essential part of Canadian summers. Depending on where you are, temperatures can skyrocket into the ungodly 30+ degree range. Instead of experiencing a beautiful summer day, we look forward to coming back home to retreat into our nicely chilled buildings.

Unless you don’t have air conditioning.

Allow us to offer a breeze…

1. Freeze your sheets
That moment right before bed is probably the most gruelling time to be A/C-less. To combat that pesky humidity, stick your sheets in the freezer for a few minutes. Just remember to place them in a plastic bag first – unless your preferred bedtime aromatherapy scent is pizza.

2. Live like Tarzan
Build yourself a handy-dandy hammock (a cot will also do). A suspended bed allows for optimum airflow.

3. Turn off the Lights
Any kind of light source is going to increase the temperature of your environment, so keeping them off prevents additional heat from creeping in. Thankfully, it stays bright outside until about 8 or 9pm during the summer months, so take advantage of that natural light – or use it as an opportunity for a romantic candle-lit dinner.

4. The stove is not your friend
Even though it may be tempting to give into those midnight cravings, using your stove is only going to  your place into sweat-central. If a hot meal is in order, fire up the grill outside. Additionally, swapping heavier, hotter meals for lighter ones will also do wonders for your body heat. Opt for some legumes, fruits, and veggies – they will be easier for your body to metabolize.

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5. Get cold feet
Literally. If you’re having trouble cooling down, dunk your feet into a bucket of cold water. There are tons of pulse points in the feet and ankles, so it’s a sure-fire way to get quality REM sleep.

6. Wet your sheets
A great way to cool down a room is to hang a wet sheet in front of an open window. Take advantage of Mother Nature’s breeze and watch the wind create your own personal A/C. (Placing a bowl of ice water in front of a fan will have a similar effect).