We've been having a bit of a heat wave here this week, with temperatures in the nineties and way too much humidity.  Our thermostat is currently set to 78; this feels really nice when coming in from outside, but too warm when we're trying to sleep.  Here are some ways to stay cool without fiddling with the thermostat:

Be Prepared:

1. Close the curtains to keep sunlight (and heat) out.
   
2. Keep a bottle of lotion in the refrigerator.  Apply liberally.
3. Fill a spray bottle with water and keep it in the refrigerator.  Give your face a spritz every so often.
   
4. Wear loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics (like cotton).
   
5. Stick your pillow in the freezer for half an hour before bed.  (I haven't tried this; my pillow would probably end up smelling like chicken and ground beef.)
   

Cool The House (Or Leave It!):

1. Turn on some fans.
   
2. Try not to use the oven, stove, or clothes dryer.
   
3. Keep the lights off as much as possible.
4. Have a water fight (outside, of course!).  Forget little water pistols; grab the garden hose!
   
5. Hang out somewhere that uses air conditioning liberally, like the mall or library.  Or the frozen section of the grocery store.
   

Cool Yourself:

1. Take a COLD shower.
   
2. Drink a glass of ice water.
   
3. Eat a popsicle, or some ice cream.
   
4. Soak a bandana in cold water and tie it around your neck.
   
5. Try using a lotion or body wash containing mint, which has a cooling effect.

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Photo Credits:
Photo of ice cubes from Darren Hester's Flickr photostream.