Beat the Heat: Natural Ways to Stay Cool
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Can’t go wrong with Mint tea!
Ah, summer—the season of fresh tomatoes, barefoot mornings, and... sweating like crazy. If you’re like me and prefer to keep things simple, sustainable, and energy-conscious, blasting the air conditioner all day might not be your go-to. Don’t get me wrong, I love the AC, but I keep ours set a little high. Don't worry—Mother Nature gave us some great ways to stay cool, naturally.
Here are some of my favorite rustic remedies and refreshing recipes to help you beat the heat—no A/C required!
🌿 1. Peppermint Cooling Spray
Peppermint essential oil gives a cooling sensation on the skin that feels like a gentle breeze—without plugging anything in. I love this spray!
DIY Peppermint Cooling Spray
1 cup distilled water
1 tablespoon witch hazel or aloe vera juice
8–10 drops peppermint essential oil
Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake before each use. Spritz on the back of your neck, wrists, or feet. Store in the fridge for an extra chill. I love to use this spray when I come in from the garden.
A label for you!
❄️ 2. Chill Your Feet
Soaking your feet in cool water can help lower your entire body temperature. Bonus points if you add herbs! It sounds crazy, but it feels so refreshing!
Herbal Foot Soak to Cool Down
A handful of fresh mint or lavender
1 quart cool water
Optional: a few slices of cucumber or lemon
Let the herbs steep in the water for 10–15 minutes, then soak your feet for instant relief. This is a great way to wind down at the end of a hot day.
🍹 3. Herbal Iced Tea – Backyard Style
Skip sugary drinks and hydrate with herbal iced teas that nourish and refresh. You can grow your own or forage some of the ingredients! I always have an abundance of mint in my herb garden and this is one way I use it.
Citrus Mint Iced Tea
2 tablespoons dried or 1/2 cup fresh mint
Peel of 1 lemon or orange
4 cups boiling water
Honey to taste (optional)
Steep mint and citrus peel in boiling water for 10–15 minutes. Strain, sweeten if desired, and chill in the fridge. Serve over ice with a sprig of mint and a slice of citrus.
🧺 4. Choose Natural Fibers & Shade
You don’t need fancy cooling gadgets. Wearing light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen helps your body regulate its temperature naturally. I love cotton or linen dresses. They are my summer go to keep cool! Keep curtains drawn during the hottest part of the day and spend time in shaded outdoor spaces when you can. A good old-fashioned hand fan or a cold wet cloth on the neck still works wonders.
🪴 5. Make a Cooling Body Powder
If you’re feeling sticky in all the wrong places, a simple DIY body powder can keep you dry and fresh.
DIY Herbal Cooling Powder
1/4 cup arrowroot powder
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon dried peppermint or lavender (finely ground)
Optional: a few drops of essential oil (lavender or peppermint)
Mix and store in a shaker jar or small container. Dust on underarms, thighs, or wherever you need a little cool-down.
Beat the heat cheat sheet!
Summer’s not about suffering—it’s about slowing down, sipping iced tea, and enjoying the simple pleasures of the season. With a few natural tricks up your sleeve, you can stay cool and comfortable, even when the temps rise.
Let me know your favorite natural ways to stay cool in the comments below—or tag us in your Rustic summer routines!
My Mantra
Stay rooted,
Roxanne
