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With temperatures soaring across the northern hemisphere, the natural impulse is to stay indoors with the A/C remote in hand. By way of finding alternatives and making the most of the hot season, what follows is your guide to beating the heat in an environment-friendly way. Got other summer ideas? Tell us in the comments below.
1. FREEZE YOUR FRUIT
Whip up a batch of frozen goodies to cool you down and treat your sweet tooth. Check out these healthy, fruity popsicle recipes, including Strawberry Mango Yogurt and White Peach and Strawberry Fizz popsicles.
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2. COASTAL CLEAN UP
Mark your calendars: September 21, 2013 is International Coastal Cleanup Day. Sign up to help the environment, and enjoy a day at the beach at the same time.
3. WHIP OUT THE ALOE
Use an aloe vera-based after sun product morning and night to cool you down – even if you're not sunburned (and stock up on the sunscreen while you're at it!)
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4. GET OUT OF THE HOUSE
Seek out nature's air conditioner, by spending time at the beach, river or natural spring – whatever your area has to offer. Spending time outdoors alleviates stress, and just 20 minutes of exposure to the sun’s rays will give you your daily dose of Vitamin D. Check out this beautiful timelapse video for some nature inspiration.
5. EYE ON THE CLOCK: EXERCISE EARLY
Fit in your morning jog during the coolest part of the day - usually before 7am.
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6. H20, GO!
Make sure to replace the fluids you're losing through all that sweet summer sweat – drink at least 10 cups of water.
7. DIY AIR CONDITIONER
If you do decide to stay indoors and power the a/c, this is your eco-friendly solution: using just a fan, a Styrofoam cooler and some ice, build your own cheap eco-friendly air conditioner to cool down small indoor spaces.
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