Some hate it, some love it, others dread it, and many long for it, but everyone relishes in all the festivities it brings. Summer, the hottest season of the year, hasn’t always had the best reputation. Yet flipping through history, you’ll find that it’s always been a significant part of our culture – from Polynesian tales about courage and heroism to Greek myths full of love and tragedy, it has inspired a lot.
So if you’re interested in summer – then hold on to your hate because we’ll be going through its science, history, present, and of course, how to make it fun.
A Bit of Science
As you may know, the earth revolves around the sun in an elliptical orbit, and summer, like its sister seasons, is governed by the planet’s relative position to the star. As the earth comes closer to the sun, the planet starts warming up; until finally, it reaches the closest point, the solstice. Usually, around the 20th of June, the solstice is the longest day of the year and the start of summer.
pexels/Bradley Hook
Summer in History
The season has held great importance throughout human history and across several civilizations. Most civilizations feared summer as it brought a dreadful period of drought, withered plants, ruined crops, and dried wells. Across all of history, you’ll find rituals and prayers designed to seek remedy summer’s calamitous behavior.
Summer Today
Long gone are the days when we feared the sun. Today, thanks to modern technology, we have not only learned to live with but embrace the warmth of its light. Moreover, the invention of HVAC systems has given us complete control over our home’s thermal comfort. A direct result of these inventions is that nowadays – summer is welcomed as a period of glistening waves and lemonades.
Having Fun Under the Sun
I love everything about summer, from taking a dip in the sea to enjoying a cone by the road. But just because I love it doesn’t mean I’m ignorant of its dangers. Mother Nature isn’t a friend nor a foe, so it falls upon us to enjoy its relishes while being wary of its supernatural force.
pexels/MarcTutorials
Whoa, that was a bit dark but don’t worry, it’s not that scary – all you have to do is follow three simple steps, and you’ll be ready for summer
Sun Screen
The first step of having fun in the sun is to protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV (ultraviolet) radiation. And the most effective way to do so is to apply a high SPF (sun protection factor) sunscreen before you go out.
pexels/Mikhail Nilov
You might be wondering, what is a high SPF of 80, 90, or maybe a 100? No, there’s no need for you to go that high; in fact, such high SPF sunscreens may not even give you the desired spectrum protection. Most dermatologists recommend around 30 SPF for most outdoor activities – however, it’s 50 if you’re going to the beach.
Eye Protection
The human is made up of small structures called rods (seeing in black and white) and cones (seeing in color). While rods may be a bit sturdier, the cones are not; too much exposure to UV radiation will cause them to break down and permanently damage your eyes.
pexels/Vitor Castro
The sunscreen may protect your skin – however, it will not protect your eyes. So what can you do, and is it even necessary to do something? Yes, it is; UV radiation has a high reflection rate, which means that it can even bounce off rough surfaces.
Now getting to the protection part, the simplest and most effective way to protect your eyes is to wear polarized glasses. Yes, it is that simple but keep in mind that polarized glasses are different from black shades. And although the shades will offer you some protection, they’re not as good as the polarized ones.
Home Cooling System
With summer approaching, that is the 20th of June – the days will get hotter and hotter; until it reaches the solstice. It won’t happen at once, but day by day, the sun’s rays will penetrate through the barriers of your home, turning each room into a mini oven.
pexels/Max Vakhtbovych
So what must you do to be able to retake and relax in the comfort of your own house? Nothing much, all you have to do is keep up with your air conditioner’s recommended maintenance schedule, and you’ll be just fine.
Furthermore, if you’re worried about the electricity bill or the environment – then switch your HVAC cooling system NJ with a solar-powered one. And don’t worry, it won’t be that expensive; most retailers will give you a significant discount if you give them your old system for the new one.
Some Recommendations
There you go, three simple steps on how to protect your fun in the sun. But enough with all the precautionary talk – let’s talk about something fun like how to best enjoy your summer. Well, first things first, you must go to the beach and enjoy all of its revelries from swimming to surfing. Aside from the beach, summer is an excellent time for activities like cycling, barbequing in your yard, and simply enjoying a glass of chilled lemonade.