Hot weather - keeping cool!

Hi all,

Hope everyone is staying as cool as they can in this hot spell.

Here in the UK, we just aren't ready for it! We're grumpy when its too hot, complain when its too cold, and moan about the drizzle! (I could use some drizzle right now!)

Other countries seem so much more ready for this, adjusting the working day for the cooler times, staying out of the direct heat. In the Canary Islands, I'm used to this temperature. But there, I have air-con, and fridge liberally stocked with cold drinks, a swimming pool at the hotel and probably my shorts. Back home in the UK though, the same temperature hits me harder for some reason. Probably the stupid office attire!

Its too easy to forget when such fuss is made about Health warnings from heat, that to many, they will sound like the nanny state. "Health and safety gone mad". But to those who need those warnings, they are invaluable.

Trying to keep the sun off my lumps heading home from work today will be hard. I can't wear a hat easily.

In the past I have even used a wet tea towel. Looks daft, but if I'm cool, whatever!

So how is weather affecting you?

Keep safe and best wishes to everyone.

[AlwaysSmiling Community Ambassador]

Hi Hidden , I agree we do complain about the weather a lot here in the UK don't we?! As much as I enjoy a bit of sunshine, days like today (35 degrees!) are a little too hot for my liking! That being said, I do find that I'm generally happier in the summer time.

In terms of my visible difference, sunny weather can be a bit more tricky. For example, I have to be careful to keep my scars covered in sun cream so that they don't burn. As well as this, hotter weather means cooler clothes which also means showing off my differences a bit more. Depending on the situation, this can make me feel self-conscious and uncomfortable. It used to affect me a lot more than it does now but I guess that is down to my perseverance every summer to regain confidence. However I know this is a big problem for many people with visible differences.

I agree with what you said though, if you're cooler wearing a tea towel then it doesn't matter what people think. We should be able to dress however we'll be most comfortable in this weather without being judged. These days this is how I act in summer, wearing what is best for me.

Hope you're well and staying safe in the heat!

☀️

[WritingDragons]

Talking about the Canary Islands, we are also feeling the heat here, and it's expected to become even warmer! Fortunately, I rarely go out, but I should take care of my nape's scar if I do; the sun ain't making jokes.

Now all this heat is making my karate training more difficult, since I sweat way more and it's harder to breathe. I also have to turn any fan on while in my room, or be shirtless if I'm in the backyard. I don't like that much, but at least I know nobody else but family would see me.

Can't imagine how does it feel to wear a specified uniform while working, that must be a nightmare! I just hope this heat will be gone soon, but I don't have many high expectations.

[Hidden in reply to WritingDragons]

Hi WritingDragons

Glad you're doing ok. You're in good company finding it tricky!

When we had our last hot spell, we were dog sitting for my mother in law, who also asked us to water the gardens for her.

So I did.

I ended up using the water hose on the gardens, the dog and me!! I looked really silly but It was really refreshing. Mrs Cruitbreaker couldn't stop laughing, and thankfully, the dog loved it!!

Soemtimes you've just got to do what works!

Its cooler here today thankfully!

[Sheila_F]

Thank you for sharing your story, @Circuitbreaker. I've been in a similar situation to you before, as I used to work in an air-conditioned office. Sometimes, I would get worried about how it would feel to be in the sun. But once I moved to the south, I realized that the cold, indoor environment was the worst part. Sunburn never gave me trouble, and a cold shower after a long hike was always refreshing. I would highly recommend that you get a small swimming pool and install it in a location of your home with the help of a swimming pool installation company ( soldapools.com/pools/constr... ), where you can use it on hot days. It might take some time to install, but it'll be worth it in the end.