THE UK HEATWAVE CONTINUES IN MANCHESTER!

Blimey is hot isn't it? With temperatures hitting a record 40 degrees in parts of the South of England and the late 30's here in the North West, summer has definitely arrived! Sandwiched between the odd thunderstorm of course - but it is the UK after all. And it comes just in time for the kiddies who have broken up for the summer and are no doubt sucking on ice lollies and playing happily in back gardens and parks across the UK this week. For the grown ups however, being at work in 30+ degree heat ain't all that fun. Even if you did manage to get a good night's sleep last night, the heat is likely to be making most of us feel lethargic, ratty and very, very sweaty.

'They manage it in Europe!' I hear you cry - and sure, they do, but the Spanish/ Italians et al are geared up for this kind of heat. Their homes and offices are kitted out with air con, they have a snooze during the hottest part of the afternoon and there's a pool in the back yard to jump into after the working day is over. Here in Britain however, it's just sticky. 

So how can you stay cool and make sure you get a good quality sleep in this weather?

* Hydrate! If you're sweating you're losing moisture and this needs to be replenished. Water is best and you should avoid caffeine and alcohol which dehydrate the body. 

* Keep activity levels as low as possible.

* Avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day (2pm - 4pm).

* Wear light colours which reflect the light, and loose fabrics. 

* Close curtains/ blinds and windows in the rooms on the hottest part of the house during the day to avoid letting hot air in. At night, open windows and let cool air blow through.

* Sleep in light fabrics which absorb sweat, allowing the surface of the skin to cool down. 

Keep safe, wear sunscreen and enjoy the heat - it won't be long before we're all moaning that we're snowed in again!

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