Hot days don’t just make you sweat—they wear you down. Staying cool in summer isn’t just about comfort, it’s about working with your body so you can feel good from morning all the way to lights-out.
It starts early. Your body temperature is at its lowest first thing in the morning, which is why those early hours feel a bit more bearable. It’s the perfect time to check off errands or head to naturally cooler spots like the grocery store, farmers market, or even the mall before the rush. A glass of water before coffee helps kickstart your internal cooling system, and wearing loose, light-colored clothes gives your skin a head start against rising temps. And what you eat matters too—heavy breakfasts can raise your core temperature, so fresh fruit or something cold and simple can set a better tone for the day.
By afternoon, things heat up fast. Your body tries to keep you cool by sweating—but that only works if the sweat can evaporate. Tight clothes or synthetic fabrics? They just trap the heat and leave you stewing. If possible, plan your day around shady spots and air-conditioned hideaways: a stroll through a shaded park, a visit to the library, or even ducking into a café with a good fan and better iced tea. If you’re heading to the beach or pool, timing and breathable cover-ups are everything—and don’t underestimate the power of a good umbrella for extra shade. Keep caffeine to a minimum (yep, it actually bumps your body temp), and break up outings so your body gets chances to cool down.
Evenings can be deceiving. The sun’s gone, but buildings, sidewalks, and patios radiate heat well after dark. That said, it’s still a great time to unwind—just pick your cool corners wisely. Catch a movie in an air-conditioned theater, have dinner on a shady patio, or hang out on the porch with your feet up and a fan nearby. A lukewarm shower (counterintuitive, but it works) can help your body shift into chill mode, and cooling your pulse points—like wrists, neck, or ankles—with a damp cloth is a quick and simple trick that actually works.
And finally: bedtime. Your body wants to drop its core temperature to help you sleep, but a hot bedroom—or clingy clothes—makes that tough. This is where your pajamas come in. Breathable fabrics like bamboo viscose, cotton, or anything moisture-wicking can make a big difference. They don’t just feel cool—they help your body regulate heat more naturally, so you can fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Cooling down isn’t one big moment—it’s all about little choices throughout the day. And when you close it out in soft, breathable sleepwear that works with your body, you’re setting yourself up for the most comfortable sleep of the season.
