Get ready to beat the summer heat

You may be looking for ways to beat the heat that don’t necessarily involve escaping indoors to air conditioning. Here are four ways to make the most of the summer season while staying cool and comfortable.

Homemade popsicles. Get the entire family involved in making homemade popsicles -- a sweet treat that can be much healthier than the store-bought variety, depending on what ingredients you include. Consider pineapple chunks, coconut shavings, berries, lime juice, kiwi, yoghurt and other fresh flavours for a delicious, nutrient-packed way to cool down on hot summer nights.

Get on the water. Keep cool with outdoor water activities. Whether you’re doing something active like swimming or just lazing at the beach, be sure you have the right tools on-hand, like a smart outdoor watch, which is water-resistant up to 50 metres and includes apps for activities like swimming and surfing.

Stay hydrated. A hydrated body is like a well-oiled machine. Indeed, staying hydrated helps keep your core body temperature in check. Be sure to drink plenty of water, particularly on the hottest days. At mealtime, select items like gazpacho or smoothies and opt for snacks that have a high-water content, like watermelon, cucumbers and apples.

Dress right. The fabrics and colours of your summer wardrobe can make a big difference in the way you feel. Stick to light, loose garments or tech fabrics specifically designed to wick moisture. Some clothing even now comes with SPF for extra sun protection, which could be important if you exercise outdoors or are otherwise spending lots of time in direct sunlight.