Ways to cool off and lower electric bills

Turning on the AC isn’t the only way to fight the summer heat. You can quickly cool off and stay refreshed all day and night without spending a bundle, or even anything at all. Try these all-natural, low-tech ideas.

Crack a window

Cooling down the house can be as easy as opening a window. Overnight ventilation is key―before you sleep, open the windows to allow cool air to circulate through the house. During the day, hang a thin, damp sheet in front of the open window to create a cool breeze. But when temperatures hit their peak, from about noon to 2 p.m., make sure all windows are shut tight to keep out the stifling air.

Freeze your clothes

Move over, ice pops! While it may seem silly, putting a shirt in the freezer for a few minutes is a quick and effective heat-buster that doesn’t cost a dime. To keep cool while you sleep, fill a cotton sock with rice, tie the ends securely and freeze for two hours. Before bed, place the sock between your sheets, and you’ll be sleeping comfortably in no time.

Kick up your heels

Your body releases much of its heat through your head and feet. Take off your shoes and go barefoot as often as you can―as long as the surface you’re walking on is safe.

Revamp your chore routine

Although appliances help you run your household, they also warm it up fast. When you can’t bear any extra heat, skip the oven and prepare dinner on an outdoor grill or in the microwave. And try to put off using the dishwasher and dryer until the evening, when it’s cooler outside.

Get creative with fans

Fill a shallow bowl with ice, and place it in front of the fan. As the ice melts and evaporates, the air from the fan will help spread the cold vapor throughout the room. For a quick cooling sensation, apply a peppermint-based lotion or moisturizer to your face or neck, and plant yourself in front of the breeze.

Spritz yourself

Keep your refrigerator stocked with small bottles filled with cold water, then simply spray yourself throughout the day for instant relief.

Change the scenery

If the temperature at home is simply unbearable, go on a field trip. Most public buildings are air-conditioned, so take a stroll around the mall, see a movie or read a book in the library for a chilly escape.

Target specific areas

Wet your wrists and other pulse points, such as your neck and temples, for a quick cool down. For a longer-lasting solution, wrap a piece of ice in a paper towel and dab it on your wrists.

Cool off with a snack

Fruits and vegetables are packed with moisture that helps your body stay hydrated and comfortable. Stash bags of produce in the refrigerator so you can take them on the run. For an extra crisp snack, freeze some melon cubes or grapes.

Switch up your lighting

Your lamp may be giving off more than a pretty glow, as incandescent bulbs get hot, warming the room as a result. Replace your old light bulbs with fluorescents, which use less energy and don’t emit as much heat.

Cover up

Although it may seem counter intuitive, in climates with dry heat, covering up can actually help cool you down. Dress in loose-fitting, light-colored fabrics to protect yourself from overheating.

Thanks, All You

On choosing vitamin supplements for men

Today more and more men are getting health and body conscious that’s why men's vitamin supplements are becoming popular. Now there are a lot of products in the market claiming to be the best vitamins for men, which maybe confusing to consumers. If you are interested in getting the best value for your money, here are some tips on determining which men's vitamin supplement is best for you and your lifestyle.

Check the label, you need to look at the product’s nutritional guide. Choose vitamin supplements that could provide all the essential vitamins and minerals you need daily.

Choose men's vitamins based on your lifestyle and diet. If you are someone with a healthy lifestyle, and consume most of the essential vitamins, particularly the B vitamins, from the food you eat, you do not need supplements that provide very high level of vitamins. Take supplements that provide more than what your body needs for a day if you think that the food you eat is deficient in certain vitamins.

Find men's vitamins that have higher daily values of Vitamin E and Selenium, according to experts selenium and vitamin E are important in preventing prostate cancer in men.

Some components of men's vitamins might have adverse effects especially if you are taking any medications, so be sure to consult your doctor before taking vitamin supplements.