Who hasn't experienced this? The air conditioning is running at full blast, but it's still hot and stuffy in the office. In the worst-case scenario, you don't even have air conditioning - keyword: home office in an attic apartment.
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Hot summer days in the office can be a real challenge. The heat dampens concentration and reduces productivity. To help you get through the working day despite the temperatures, we have put together seven smart tips to help you away from fans and the like: Whether it's short movements, clever drinking strategies or small gadgets: With our advice, you'll be well prepared for the summer heat in the office.
1. use a mini air conditioner with a USB port
Yes, you read that right! There are now mini air conditioners that can be easily connected to your computer via USB. These little miracle devices are great alternatives to desk fans and cool the ambient air directly at your desk. They take up very little space, are quiet and bring you a cool breeze - ideal for hot days in the office. If this option is too expensive or energy-guzzling for you, you can use a hand fan or, more old-school, a fan for acute heat spikes.
2. aloe vera gel as a cooling moisturizing miracle
A real pro tip that athletes often use during the hot season: Keep an aloe vera gel in the fridge and apply it to your arms, neck or forehead as needed - this not only cools you down pleasantly, but also cares for your skin at the same time. Aloe vera has a soothing effect (not just against sunburn!) and is perfect for a refreshing boost in between. A real insider tip for hot office days.
3. goodbye water tub: cooling doormat for the desk
Our feet play an important role in regulating our body temperature. Instead of reaching for the water tub, use an innovative solution: cooling doormats! These special mats contain a gel that stores cold and releases it over a period of hours. As these mats do not require any additional energy, they become warm after prolonged contact with your body but cool down again automatically. Simply place the mat under your desk and enjoy the refreshing coolness on your feet - this not only prevents water splashes on parquet or carpet, but also helps you to feel fresher overall.
4. use temperature-regulating seat cushions made from natural materials
An often underestimated source of heat in the office is the chair you sit on for hours on end. Conventional cushions and pillows retain heat and make sitting unbearable. This is where temperature-regulating seat cushions come into play. These cushions, such as the "Swiss stone pine cushion", are filled with natural materials that ensure a pleasantly cool seat. They adapt to your body temperature and prevent you from sweating.
5. ice cube hack for the fan
So it's the fan after all: if you use a table fan, you can significantly boost the cooling effect with a simple trick. Simply place a bowl of ice cubes in front of the fan. The cold air from the melted ice is distributed around the room by the fan and ensures a noticeably cooler room climate - a kind of DIY air conditioning system for little money.
6. gentle stretching exercises for a freshness kick
It seems counter-intuitive, but it's true: (moderate!) exercise helps combat heat. Short breaks from exercise are not only good for your back, but also help to regulate your body temperature. Gentle stretching exercises in particular, such as stretching your arms over your head, bending your upper body forwards or simple neck and shoulder stretches, promote blood circulation and cool the body from the inside out. These movements provide a fresh supply of air to the lungs and help you to feel revitalized without breaking a sweat. Regular exercise also counteracts the heat build-up that can result from prolonged sitting.
Would you like to move more at work? Here are our workout tips for the office.
7. warm drinks: mint tea as a cooling miracle cure
This tip may also sound paradoxical, but warm drinks such as tea can actually cool you down on hot days. Mint tea is particularly suitable because peppermint contains menthol, which not only refreshes the body but also has a cooling effect on the body. Warm tea also stimulates the body to produce less heat, as it is not dependent on strong external temperature regulation. Ginger tea can also help to regulate body temperature better thanks to its circulation-promoting effect.
Tip for a real refreshing break: make yourself a mint tea, let it cool down a little, drink it lukewarm and also opt for cooling snacks with a high water content, such as cucumber or melon.
Bonus tip: You should avoid these heat no-goes
Even if you try to do everything right, there are some common mistakes that make the heat in the office even more unbearable. Here are the biggest no-goes you should avoid:
- Ice-cold drinks: although it's tempting to reach for an ice-cold drink when the temperature is high, you're better off avoiding it. Ice-cold drinks give your body the signal to increase its own temperature production, which causes you to start sweating again more quickly.
- Heavy meals: Greasy and heavy meals put a strain on your circulation and increase your body temperature. Therefore, avoid hearty lunches and instead opt for light meals such as salads, fruit or vegetables, which won't heat up your body even more.
- Using too many screens at the same time: Every electronic device generates heat, and if several screens are running at the same time, the room temperature can quickly increase. Think about whether it is really necessary to use several monitors or devices at the same time or whether you can reduce this to the bare minimum.
Conclusion: With our tips, you can save yourself a lot of heat stress and ensure that your workplace remains as comfortable as possible despite the summer heat. Try out which tips suit you and your working environment best. With our tips, you'll definitely be well prepared for the next heatwave in the office.