Are You Prepared for the Heat?

In case you hadn't heard, things are going to heat up in August, LITERALLY. If you are from a moderate climate in California the heat of Rancho Mirage might be a bit overwhelming during the conference. Expect temperatures to be in the 100's. While the conference planning has taken into consideration the higher temperatures, there are things you can do to help.

TIP: Reserve a room closer to the meeting space. Some rooms on the property are located in the back and may be exhausting or difficult to walk for individuals with medical problems or adversity to heat.

TIP: Plan to wear loose fitting, light colored clothing, made of lightweight breathable materials. Shorts and short sleeves are preferable. Bring a hat or parasol for when you are outside.

TIP: To help your body prepare to tolerate the high desert temperatures in Rancho Mirage this August,(not to mention reducing energy use and greenhouse gases!) you might want to consider not running your air conditioners, in your car or in your home, for about a week or two prior to the conference. Exposing yourself to the summer heat will cause your body to produce "heat proteins" which will help protect your cells and organs from high temperatures, and may make it easier for it to transition to the Rancho Mirage climate. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heat_shock_protein

TIP: Make sure to stay hydrated. Bring a refillable bottle and drink often. Water stations will be placed throughout the conference to make refilling easy. Water is key to staying hydrated!

TIP: Bring sunscreen! UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin and contribute to premature skin aging and skin cancer. Our exposure to UVA is more constant than UVB -- we encounter UVA rays no matter what the season or time of day. UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn, premature skin aging and skin cancer.

TIP: Do you workout or jog? If so, plan on rising early and getting that workout in at the crack of dawn before the heat kicks in. Or maybe you are a night owl? If so, stay up a bit later and do your workout in the evening after the sun goes down!

TIP: What will you be drinking? It's a fact; most attendees will indulge in a little caffeine or choice alcoholic beverage. If that's you, make sure you dilute those drinks with comparable amounts of water. Caffeine and alcohol can quickly dehydrate you if you are not consuming water as well. Drink smart!