02 Oct 6 Conscious Ways to Keep Cool This Summer

It’s here at last, the sizzling, sunshine-filled South African summer – and if you’re looking for conscious ways to keep cool this summer, we’ve got you covered.. As the temperature climbs, it’s tempting to turn on the fans or aircon full-blast, but that won’t do the planet (or your electricity bill) any favours.

Luckily, there are plenty of easy, conscious ways to stay cool and refreshed through the hot season, no energy-guzzling appliances required.

Here are six FtN-approved ways to beat the heat sustainably this summer.

1. Hydrate, But Make It Sustainable

Yes, water is your summer BFF, but single-use plastic bottles definitely aren’t. Stay hydrated with a reusable stainless steel or glass water bottle, which keeps drinks colder for longer and cuts down on waste.

Try adding a squeeze of lemon, a few mint leaves, or cucumber slices for a natural flavour boost. And if you’re mindful about water quality, a bottle with a built-in filter or a home filtration jug can keep your water pure and refreshing all season long.

2. Snack Smart, Stay Cool

Heavy meals (especially high-protein ones) can heat up your metabolism, leaving you feeling sluggish in the heat. Instead, eat like a grazer with smaller, lighter meals throughout the day.

Keep nutrient-rich, wholefood snacks on hand – think dried fruit, seed mixes, or superfood snack bars – for steady energy without the post-meal heatwave. Bonus: these are perfect for beach days and hikes, too!

3. Juice It Fresh

Skip the sugar-packed store juices and make your own cooling concoctions. Freshly pressed fruit and veggie juices or smoothies are packed with nutrients and hydration power.

A slow juicer or high-speed blender is a great investment for summer wellness. Try combos like cucumber, pineapple, and mint for the ultimate refreshing sip. For an extra hydration boost, you can also add coconut water. Naturally rich in electrolytes, coconut water helps you stay replenished and cool during those scorching summer days.

4. Cool Beauty Essentials

Sun, sweat, and summer adventures can take a toll on your skin, so it’s time to stock up on clean beauty essentials that hydrate and soothe.

Keep your skin happy with aloe-infused gels, hydrating facial mists, and reef-safe, mineral SPF to protect from UV rays without harming marine life. After a long day in the sun, pop your face mist or aloe gel in the fridge for an instant cooling refresh.

5. Sleep Easy, Naturally

Struggling to drift off in the heat? Skip the fan and try this clever cooling trick: fill your hot water bottle with chilled water and place it by your feet, ankles, or behind your knees.

For even dreamier nights, switch to organic cotton or bamboo bedding. It’s breathable, soft, and sustainable for sweat-free summer sleep.

6. Turn Up the Heat (Yes, Really)

It sounds counterintuitive, but spicy food helps you stay cool by triggering your body’s natural cooling mechanism, sweat!

Try adding a little chilli, ginger, or cayenne to your meals, or brew an iced chai or ginger tea for a flavourful, metabolism-boosting refresh. It’s heat that helps you beat the heat.

Stay Cool, Consciously

This summer, you don’t need to compromise comfort for conscious living. With a few mindful swaps you can stay refreshed, radiant, and kind to the planet. These conscious ways to keep cool this summer help you stay comfortable without compromising your commitment to sustainable living.

Discover more sustainable summer essentials at Faithful to Nature.