Lily PolenchukWith global temperatures rising, all of Canada will soon look like the planet from Dune. But until we get our hands on some stillsuits, we’ll need other ways to beat the heat this summer. Fend off the effects of the impending climate apocalypse with these sure-fire ways to cool off!
1. Swim in the University of Alberta Aquatic Centre
It might be cliché, but you can’t go wrong with a swim when trying to cool down. Luckily, the U of A Aquatic Centre is open weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.. Although these times seem all over the place, they still provide a chill refuge for students and staff. I especially encourage anyone taking a summer class to visit. The Van Vliet membership is already included in our tuition, so we might as well get our money’s worth!
If you’re not taking courses this summer, you can still buy a month’s membership for $24.05. While it’s not free, it might be worth the investment.
2. Make your own air conditioner (AC)
I wish I could tell you that fans alone are good alternatives, but nothing beats air conditioning in the hot weather. Unfortunately, AC units are way too expensive for the average person, let alone for the broke university student.
Luckily, you can elevate the typical fan experience at a fraction of the cost. Throw some ice into a bowl (preferably metal) and place it in front of your fan, angling the fan slightly towards the bowl. The ice chills the air and sends a refreshing breeze your way. This hack worked best with my desktop fan, so I could feel the breeze directly on my face as I scrolled the internet.
3. Hang out somewhere that has AC
On the off-chance that you’re stranded in a deserted Lister room without ice or a fan, you might have to find your AC somewhere else. I suggest looking for a friend who benefits from an air-conditioned house and camping out at their place.
Otherwise, the U of A has a few facilities that are cool in the summer. Specifically, CCIS or the Electrical and Computer Engineering Research Facility (ECERF) have some good hangout spots alongside they’re chilled vents. Unlike other buildings (HUB mall), the U of A actually cares about these ones. And no, you do not need to be a student in engineering or the sciences to be there.
4. Invest in loose-fitting, cotton clothes
In the summer, the general instinct is to buy shorts and a tank top. However, baggy tops or dresses actually ventilate the air around your body, so you can better hold onto the fleeting relief of wind that passes your way. Cotton, in particular, is a super breathable fabric that makes this process much more comfortable. Not to mention, clothes that offer more coverage can help minimize heat absorption by shielding your skin from the sun. Lathering up on sunscreen is still a must, but these types of outfits should help out the more sunburn-prone readers.
5. Drink something hot
Baggy clothing isn’t the only counter-intuitive method for staying cool. While a crisp glass of lemonade sounds refreshing, a hot cup of tea might actually be better. A study from the University of Ottawa found that drinking hot beverages makes you sweat more, which lowers your body temperature. This strategy is especially useful for the hot and dry weather in Edmonton which allows that sweat to evaporate. However, if you’re someplace hot and humid, you might already be sweating a ton. In that case, cold water would be a better option.
