Summer heat is brutal and while there are plenty of ways to cool off — go swimming, take a cold shower, and crank the A/C — not many are kind to the utility bill. Saving money is a big deal. Below are five DIY ways to cool off that are approved by even our most frugal friends… and remember, you are always welcome to enjoy the A/C at your local Ream’s Food Stores.
Peppermint Green Tea Spritz
Peppermint is a natural and refreshing option for cooling down on hot days. Mix this with green tea and aloe and you have a menthol-infused spritz that truly hits the spot. Whether you are looking for a quick cool down or a fun DIY project for the family, this peppermint green tea spritz is sure to deliver.
Ingredients available at Ream’s Food Stores:
- 1 cup brewed green tea, cooled
- 1 tbsp aloe vera gel
- 15 drops peppermint essential oil
Follow these instructions for the peppermint green tea spritz.
Cucumber Face Mask
Whoever first figured out that cucumbers feel nice on your face deserves a prize. But, don’t wait until your next spa day to treat yourself. This fast and easy DIY face mask will cool you off, help you relax and make you feel like a million bucks. Plus, your skin will thank you for the anti-aging antioxidants found in yogurt (who knew?).
Ingredients available at Ream’s Food Stores:
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt
Follow these instructions for the cucumber face mask.
Homemade A/C
Okay, maybe we are bordering on desperation with this DIY trick, but at least it’s a good life-hack for your arsenal. This homemade A/C is so effective, it just might leave you wondering why you pay for the real thing in the first place. All you need is a fan and two frozen water bottles and you are on your way to cool town.
What you need from Ream’s Food Stores:
- 1 fan
- 2 water bottles
Follow these instructions for Homemade A/C.
Strawberry Popsicles
Popsicles are a must for beating the summer heat, and their portability renders them a great cool down tactic. Easy to make, popsicles can be a guilt-free source of protein and in-season fruits — the flavor options are endless. Enjoy these simple strawberry pops at any time of day for a quick cool down.
Ingredients available at Ream’s Food Stores:
- 12 oz fresh strawberries
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup honey
Follow these instructions for the strawberry popsicles.
Watermelon-Lime Slushies
Slushies are perfect for cooling down on-the-go or while laying low, but they are also exceptional pre-exercise drinks for summer. According to Dr. Scott Montain with the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, slushies have been proven to boost endurance when consumed before outdoor recreation. But, whether you are exercising or not, we all know slushies are good for the soul. These watermelon-lime slushies are no exception.
Ingredients available at Ream’s Food Stores:
- 1 cup watermelon, cubed
- 1 lime, juiced
- ½ cup water
- 2 cups ice
Follow these instructions for the slushies.