Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Stay Cool While Sleeping

A ceiling fan can help keep you cool while you're sleeping.


Summer nights can be a joy --- staying outside after the sun goes down, not needing to run your heat or bundle up just to leave the house. However, air conditioning costs can be overwhelming, and unless you run your A/C at full blast, the heat can begin to cause discomfort during the night, especially when you're sleeping. Summertime naps during the day can be even worse. There are ways, other than turning up your A/C, that can help you stay cool and comfortable whatever time of day you're sleeping.








Instructions


1. Start simple --- try turning up your ceiling fan and/or using a lighter blanket, or just a sheet. If you don't have a ceiling fan, use a portable fan.


2. Add ice. If you have a portable fan, place a large pan filled with ice cubes directly in front of the fan, preferably at bed-level.


3. Use a slightly damp sheet or towel as a blanket to cover you as you fall asleep. Place a dry towel underneath you. Or, try just wearing damp cotton socks to help cool your feet and thus the rest of your body.


4. Freeze your bedding. Place your sheets, blanket and pillowcases into a freezer bag and put them into the freezer all day.


5. Try different sleeping arrangements. Move downstairs if possible --- warm air rises, so you will have a cooler environment if you sleep on the first floor or in the basement.


6. Modify your sleeping position, if you can. "Spread eagle" can help you stay cooler, and sleep apart from anyone sharing your bed so as not to cultivate body heat.








7. Before bed, air dry after a cool shower. If you don't have time to shower, at least rinse your face and wrists under cold water to cool the blood a bit.


8. Try using a bamboo or straw mat, or invest in a gel mattress. These retain less body heat, diverting it away from you, and will help you stay cooler longer. For even better results, get a hammock and allow air to circulate all around you.

Tags: help stay, body heat, help stay cooler, into freezer, stay cooler, turning your