This summer has been an extraordinarily hot one for some parts of the country. Keeping cool is the goal of the day, which means air conditioners are working overtime and pools are overcrowded. But there are other ways to stay cool naturally during the dog days of summer.

1. Holly go lightly. It may seem obvious, but opting for lightweight clothing is a smart choice. By lightweight, we're talking about Caribbean-style cotton and linen that's made to battle summer sweat and actually keep it away from your skin.

2. Cover yourself! Although it sounds completely counter-intuitive, it works. Think about people in Middle Eastern nations who dress head to toe even in the desert climate. It is because the clothing actually shades your skin from the sun, keeping you cooler in the long run. Just be sure you wear lightweight clothing.

3. Get low. Head to the lowest point in your house. If that's the basement, all the better. Warm air rises while cold air tends to linger (sweet) and low.

4. Wet yourself. (No, not like that!) If you're planning to be outside in the sweltering heat, wet your shirt before you go. This will give you a leg up against the hot sun. If you're close to a sink or hose, continue wetting your shirt throughout the day. You can also wet your head, which will give you an immediate, refreshing cool blast.

5. Spice it up! Dust off the Thai and Indian cookbooks. Eating spicy food makes you sweat, and sweating cools the skin as it evaporates. Spicy foods contain a chemical called capsaicin that makes you sweat, but doesn't raise your body temperature. Think about all those times you've broken a brow sweat when chowing on spicy curry.

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