It's so hot, what can we do? Introducing ways to reduce the heat around the world

As hot days continue, rising temperatures are becoming a serious problem on a global scale. Now is the time to think about ways to stay cool and be environmentally friendly. We'll introduce you to some heat strategies learned from traditional African wisdom and tips for choosing sustainable fashion.

First, clothes!
Learn smart clothing choices from Africa's heat strategy

The people living in the arid regions of Africa have been facing the intense heat for centuries, and their traditional clothing and attire contain a wealth of wisdom that we can apply to our modern lives.

The power of a relaxed silhouette

Many traditional African clothing is loose-fitting and not tight-fitting, allowing for good ventilation. This is not just a fashion statement, but a functional design that promotes air circulation and helps regulate body temperature. Even in modern fashion, choosing relaxed-fit items rather than tight-fitting clothing will help you stay comfortable even on hot days.

The coolness of natural materials

Natural fibers like organic cotton and linen are breathable and absorb sweat well, making them ideal for hot weather. On the other hand, synthetic fibers like polyester tend to trap heat and can be uncomfortable on hot days. Consider incorporating the benefits of natural materials used in traditional African clothing into your modern wardrobe.

Traveling in the summer can be tough... Tips for staying comfortable while traveling

Smart clothing choices for commuting and going out

If you work in an office, you'll often be going back and forth between air-conditioned rooms and the scorching sun outdoors. To cope with the temperature difference, it's essential to bring a light jacket with you.

A thin organic cotton cardigan or a breathable linen scarf can be used indoors to protect against air conditioning and outdoors to provide shade.

And a parasol is a must for both men and women! Using a parasol will significantly reduce the temperature of your head.
According to Weather News, using a parasol can reduce the temperature by 15 degrees, from 55 degrees to 40 degrees.

Thinking about what's inside your travel bag

A breathable bag, such as a sisal basket bag, will look cooler in the summer and protect your smartphone, computer, and other items inside from high temperatures.

It's also convenient to keep some cooling products in your bag.
Always have items on hand to beat the heat while traveling, such as small ice packs, a folding fan or handheld fan, and sweat wipes. We also recommend bringing a water bottle. This is because, unlike plastic bottles, it can maintain a cool temperature. It also helps prevent water droplets.

Although it's easy to end up with a lot of luggage, it's recommended to store your belongings in small, lightweight pouches so you can quickly take them out when you need them.

Cool yourself from the inside out with food

Learn how to beat the heat from African cuisine

People in hot regions often eat spicy food because it promotes sweating and has the effect of lowering body temperature. Many spices commonly used in African cuisine contain ingredients that have a cooling effect on the body. For example, in Nigeria, there is chili powder (suya powder) used on skewered grills (called suya).

Recommended foods and drinks for summer

I think it's hard to get African spices in Japan, so I'd like to introduce some alternative ingredients.

We recommend vegetables and fruits that have been eaten at home for a long time, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and watermelon, which are high in water content and have a cooling effect from within the body.

Additionally, hot drinks like mint tea can actually help regulate your body temperature. In African cultures, it's customary to drink hot tea on hot days, as this promotes sweating and ultimately reduces body temperature.

For lunchtime at the office, try a refreshing cold soup or a spicy curry. Even if the heat makes you feel hot for a moment, the refreshing feeling afterward will help you work comfortably in the afternoon.

Sustainable fashion choices help keep the planet cooler

Add personality with upcycled accessories

Upcycling is the process of turning old and discarded materials into new accessories. Lightweight and cool accessories, such as earrings made from beads and string, add color to your outfits during the hot season when it's difficult to layer up. These items kill two birds with one stone, allowing you to enjoy fashion while reducing your environmental impact.

Using color psychology to choose cool colors

Colors have a psychological effect, and choosing colors that make you feel cool can lower your perceived temperature. Try incorporating colors that visually create a cool feeling, such as the vibrant blues and greens found in African cultures, or refreshing whites.

It is also effective to unify your surroundings in cool colors by using colorful notebooks and miscellaneous items.

Make your summer more comfortable by improving your living environment

Using the power of plants

Houseplants have the effect of lowering the surrounding temperature through transpiration. Plants with large leaves are particularly effective. Bringing greenery into a room visually cools it down and also helps purify the air. Using them in conjunction with an air conditioner can create a more comfortable environment.

And make the future cooler with ethical and sustainable choices

Our daily choices affect the global climate, so choosing ethical products is not just a trend, it's an important step to leave a better environment for future generations.

By choosing environmentally friendly products such as sustainable accessories, apparel made from organic materials, and African goods made using traditional techniques, we can stay cool and comfortable while also contributing to the reduction of global warming.

A series of small choices will eventually lead to big changes.

Representative Kaoru Tsuji