This is a special repost featuring a great way to keep calm and carry on when it’s unbearably hot out.
When I moved to Brooklyn in May of 2013, I realized how insufferable the summer can be (in New York City)—and let me tell you, I live for the warm weather. I grew up without AC, and always prided myself on not needing polar temps to survive my favorite season, yet the humidity and oven-like temps in the subways (and in my own apartment) drive me crazy now. And dressing for my walk to the subway each morning (I’m usually already sweaty by the time I’m swiping my Metrocard) and for frigid office temps can be a challenge.
I picked up this simple tip from a woman who was doing my nails at Beauty Bar—a kitschy bar in Gramercy. (You basically pay for a martini and get a free manicure, which is bound to be smudged by the time you leave, but it’s still a lot of fun.) I was telling the manicurist how I found the city unbearable during the summer, which was so upsetting to me, and she said: “You know what the trick is? Give yourself tons of time.” I prodded her to explain more.
“When you’re rushing to the subway, of course you’re sweaty and hating the weather. I always give myself an extra half hour or so to get somewhere, and then I can really take my time and stay cool. And of course, all I drink is iced coffee.”
She had a great point. More often than not, I’m rushing to make a train, which gets 10 times more stressful in the summer: Picture me bumbling down the street, dodging grandmas and slow walkers, rushing to make a train to Long Island for the weekend, carrying super-packed, heavy bags, and too much stuff in my hands. And it’s 2 million degrees outside. So much fun! (I know, I do it to myself.) But isn’t summer supposed to be about lazy, languid days and just taking it slow? Yes! I’ve come to realize that when I do give myself extra time, my commute feels downright breezy. If you’re always on time or early, this might be a given for you. But for me, it’s changed my outlook on traveling and commuting through the city, especially in the summer.
Less rushing means more enjoying the moment (when was the last time you had the chance to savor every. single. sip of a delicious iced coffee?) and a better mood when you reach your destination. So cheers to taking it slow, wherever you’re headed this summer.
Xoxo, H