Fun out of the sun

Summer is a wonderful time of year, for the most part; long days filled with sunshine, iced drinks, and enjoying the great outdoors. From taking in a stunning view of the lake quaffing local wines to enjoying an afternoon siesta in the magic hammock, life slows down and can feel pretty darn good. But dare I mention a dark underbelly of the summer season for the people out there who actually love winter? When the temperature creeps up and over the 30 degree mark, being comfortable in one’s own skin can be a challenge.

Pity also the allergy sufferers during the summer months. Did you know temporarily losing your sense of smell can actually cause depression, not to mention the resulting insomnia from stuffy sinuses? Mix in sucking exhaust fumes while melting in tourist traffic, manoeuvring crowded beaches, and listening to noisy neighbours partying up a storm, and enjoying summer seems an unlikely possibility. Until, that is, you find ways of escaping it altogether. Nothing like a good distraction from oppressive summer heat to cool your soaring temper; I mean temperature!

(Photo: Flickr user, tammymitchell)

Indulging in an icy Popsicle (or three) with a movie that’s set in winter is a good way to cool down and forget the heat; even better with air conditioning. How about an icy shower to cool off? Studies prove it’s great for your circulation and helps your body release toxins. Libraries are also peaceful (air conditioned) oasis to settle down with a good book, magazine or newspaper. And terribly inspiring too, since they are full of fantastic how to books on everything from crafting your own furniture to learning a new language. Not only books, but CDs of any type of music you may want – and it’s all free!

The sizzling summer season can also be a great time to take those art classes you never had time for until now. Or go for a nice long gym workout – gyms are notoriously quieter in the summer months. If you love to ski or snowboard, you may find a good deal on equipment for next ski season, in a wonderfully air conditioned store.

Enjoying a creamy iced latte in a cool coffee shop you’ve never been to can be just the change of scenery required to chill out. Or – if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em! Become a tourist in your own city – visit a local herb farm, new winery, or bistro that just opened up. Pretend you’re a critic and write about your experiences in a journal for future reading. If a little adventure is in order to get lethargic blood pumping, why not book a zip lining tour, parasailing escapade (which often includes a refreshing dip in the lake), or rent a Sea-Doo and ride the waves. Anything near water will soothe a sweaty disposition.

Whatever you choose to do for the remainder of summer, whether escaping the heat or joining the tourists, keep an open mind, a sense of wonder, and play safe! Bring a friend along who keeps complaining it’s too hot so you can change their mind. Don’t worry - you’ll be shoveling snow and scraping frost off your windows again in no time!

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.