In the southern states of Australia, we survive the cold of winter by looking forward to the heat of summer and the pleasures of holidays, Christmas, watching or playing sport, barbecues, swimming, picnics, alfresco meals. Add visitors and grandchildren to the mix and a few survival tips may be helpful.
Sunstroke
When outside always wear a stylish sunhat to shade your face and prevent sunstroke. If you feel overcome, dizzy, weak or nauseous, rest in the shade and take a long drink of water.
Hydration
We normally lose about one and half litres of water in urine each day, but on a very hot day, we may lose almost three litres through extra perspiration. Perspiring is nature’s way of keeping us cool. Put back the water. Drink eight glasses of water each day. Mineral water is an uplifting alternative to tap water and will replace lost minerals. Drink orange, grapefruit, tomato juice or a commercial electrolyte beverage to replenish mineral salts.
Sunglasses
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s glare and to prevent squinting which can encourage wrinkles. Choose dark lenses for maximum protection. When looking in the mirror wearing your sunglasses, you should not be able to see your eyes.
Dry skin
Your skin will be thirsting for more moisture. Use body lotion and moisturiser lavishly and often. Hands, legs and face especially. Remember elbows and knees.
Hair
The stylish sunhat should protect your hair from sun damage, nevertheless, treat your hair to a conditioning treatment or mask now and again. It you like to swim during summer, have a hair conditioning treatment weekly to counteract the effects of saltwater and/or chlorine.
Diet
Take advantage of summer’s fruits and salads; eat light meals. You never know, you may lose a kilo or two!
Health
A little sunshine can be beneficial if you suffer from psoriasis or eczema; plus your body needs sunshine to produce Vitamin D. Infrared rays from sunshine can soothe tense muscles and relieve arthritis and stiff joints.
Retin-A
Discontinue using Retin-A whilst on holiday at the beach, sailing, bushwalking – anywhere you will be outdoors and in the sun for hours during the day.
Capillaries
Too much sun can lead to broken capillaries, so be strict about sunshine on your face.
Look stylish, stay cool
At last the glorious days of summer in southern Australia have arrived, so relax into the lifestyle that comes with the sunshine and warm weather. Have a good time.