Did you hear, we’re having a heatwave? Good news, right? If you're student, freelancer or landscape gardener, sure, but for the rest us, lazy days in the park are thwarted by our obligation to turn up at work and, y'know, pay those pesky bills.
It’s not all doom and gloom, though. We’ve come up with a few handy tips so you can still make the most of summer in the city.
1 – Wake up
The sun is rising at about 5.09am(ish) at the moment which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the weather before you’re shackled to your computer. Go for a walk, enjoy a quiet, contemplative coffee in the garden or head out for a run before it gets too hot.
2 – Al Fresco not Al Desko
60% of us don’t take a lunch break. This is justified if it’s freezing outside and you want to watch Beyoncé videos in peace at your desk but if the sun is shining, we’d say it’s compulsory to be out there enjoying it. Even if it’s only 15 minutes, your body will thank you for the vitamin D and fresh air, plus your mind will be grateful for a break from thinking.
3 – Shop!
Heat wave, shmeat wave. As long as the sun rises we need little excuse to go sunglasses shopping. Hot foot it on your lunch break and wear at your desk for maximum UV vibes.
4 – Move your meeting outside
If you want to be outside, your desk buddy/boss probably wants to be too. Why not suggest meeting al fresco? In the shade, of course, so you won't have any laptop issues, and with lots of SPF on naturally.
5 – Sensory summer
If things are really desperate and you absolutely cannot leave the office, it’s time for some extra sensory measures.
So headphones on and get Lil Nas's latest or Stormzy on repeat. Then light a jasmine, orange or verbena scented candle to create some evocative summer scents.
5 – Sun downer
Take advantage of the long days. The sun is setting at about 9.05pm so leg it home from work and find a patch of outside space to bask in. Accessorise with a book and preferably wine.
Or, check out one of London's many, gorgeous rooftop bars.
6 – Exercise outdoors
The alternative to reading a book and chilling? Work up a sweat, of course. Forget the gym, hit up your local park instead this week. Or find an outdoor class to suit you, whether it's boxing or a slightly more mellow sunset yoga session in your local area.
6 - Get a good night's sleep
Granted it's difficult to nod off during a heatwave, but it can be done. Try creating a ‘cross flow’ of air, which can be done by opening a window and positioning a fan alongside it to help create a cooling flow throughout the room. Another top tip? Dip your feet in cool water right before going to bed.
You can also put your sheets in the fridge or freezer for 10 minutes before you go to bed, which helps you cool down instantly. You want to be able to get early, and start all over again, right?
