Arizona is hot. It's a melt-in-your-socks and fry-an-egg-on-the-sidewalk kind of hot. So hot. So how on earth do we combat this grueling heat? As a lifetime desert-dweller, I have compiled a list of ways to stay cool during the summer months (aka March through October). So when you are sweating your Birkenstocks off, remember these tips to keep cool when you're not in school.
1. Take a cold shower
When the air is hot, there's nothing better than cold water. Especially when your pool is like a warm bath. Taking colder showers is also better for your hair, so it's a win-win.
2. Eat a popsicle
Better yet, make a popsicle and then eat it. There are hundreds of popsicle flavor combinations just waiting to be explored! Plus, they're super cold.
3. Go ice skating
Head to your local indoor ice rink and skate it up! It's more fun with friends, but, hey, you can go alone too! Even if you're not good at skating, you can still come and sit in the stands. Just soak in the chill.
4. Go swimming
Pool, lake, river, or whatever! Just get in the water! And try to do it at the beginning of the summer season, before the water heats up.
5. Go to the movies
Entertainment is key in the hot summer months, so head to the movies with your friends and stay cool while enjoying snacks and the latest movie!
6. Go to the air-conditioned mall
You don't even have to buy anything! Just go and window shop! It's a great place to hang out for a few hours in the summer.
7. Go to the library
Are you into books? Head to the library for a change of scenery and read a book or two! The library is great. Cool. Quiet. Just you and the books.
8. Go get ice cream
There's always time for ice cream. Always. Go somewhere new. Try a new flavor. You have all summer to experiment!
9. Have a water balloon fight
This is a fun one. While it does require you to go outside. Boo hoo. There's water and you can invite your friends! Just remember to clean up when you're done.
10. Finish that series on Netflix
Everyone has a series on Netflix that they've abandoned. Go back and finish that series! You have time. Summer doesn't really end until October anyway.
11. Go to an indoor gym
If you've got to be inside all summer, you might as well get ripped. Find a well air-conditioned gym and get to it. Maybe not fun, but definitely good for you!
12. Facetime a friend
Contact that friend you haven't talked to in a while and Facetime! This is especially great for friends who have moved out of state too!
13. Learn to cook something new
Spend your summer in the kitchen and learn to cook something new! You can cook or bake and share what you make with friends!
14. Go to a water park
Head to the waterpark with your friends or family! It's probably way more fun than the pool in your backyard.
15. Go somewhere else
Literally, anywhere else that's not Arizona. Get out. It's way too hot here.