Folks this is a quick reminder in this summer heat to reach out to our friends, families and neighbors. It is a time to show you care. here are a few ideas.
1) Make sure they are staying cool and drinking enough water.
2) Perhaps invite folks in for a meal if they have no A/C and can't tolerate turning on the stove to cook.
3) Volunteer to take someone to a public place during the heat of the day such as the movies, library, YMCA or the mall.
4) Give a gift of fruit such as watermelon to help those you know who hate water to get an alternative source. Or make them you special mint julip to try. Any non caffeinated drink can help them refresh.
5) Check up on the elderly specifically who tend to lose their heat sensors. Make sure they are wearing lighter clothes and have windows open with fans if they don't have the A/C.
6) If you have loved ones in the city without A/C consider inviting them out to burbs and putting them up for a few days. The heat difference can be as much as ten degrees when getting away from the city streets.
7) Make sure people are drinking enough, reminding them that thirst is the first sign towards death. If they are thirsty and having heat headaches, definitely they need water. A full glass of 12-16 ounces can save a person's life... with a follow up 8 ounces every half hour until they are feeling better. If the additional water isn't helping the thirst or the headache in two hours consider it time to get to the doctors. Use your judgment here. If the person is further down the heat exhaustion line go directly to medical assistance.
8) Watch your own play, be wise. Don't overexert, cover up from the sum and stay hydrated. remember do not use sugary drinks as it is harder for the body to absorb the water.
Be an encourager to others. Give them permission to treat themselves well.
Linda Bender is a personal wellness therapist. She uses over 20 holistic life coaching and touch therapy techniques from reiki to personal training to help you reduce stress and pain so your body invokes its natural healing ability. She is at Bender Healing on Church Street in Phoenixville. Bender Healing provides energy medicine and life coaching including massage, reiki, reflexology, personal training and nutrition. See www.BenderHealing.com or call 800-706-1354 for more information.
