How do you cope with heat waves without using AC? Do you think Mexicans do it any differently than foreigners?
Ana Lopez, 32, teacher.
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One of the simplest ways to combat heat is to find shade. Whether it’s under a tree, a canopy, or an awning, staying out of direct sunlight can help reduce exposure to the heat. I always find myself searching for shade. In Mexico, we are lucky we have so many backyards with trees and such, but the new buildings and apartments are just concrete which is definitely not helping at all. Also, traditional Mexican homes are often made of thick adobe or masonry walls, which provide thermal insulation. These walls can absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night, helping to regulate indoor temperatures, but now, low-cost buildings are taking over with cheap, thin, materials.
Santiago Morales, 45, Mechanic. I think our diet also helps. For starters, we drink tons of water but also aguas frescas, coconut water, electrolytes and even a little beer now and then when it’s too hot. I feel like foreigners only drink water, pop, and sports drinks. Food is also a big way to cool off, like the grandmas who make stews on super hot days! We always complain, but eating or drinking something hotter than the actual temperature will make you feel cooler. It’s a common practice along with drinking coffee in the middle of the day in Veracruz.
Valentina de la Cruz, 28, nurse. I like to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton, that helps keep the body cool by allowing air to circulate and sweat to evaporate. I also like to have lots of plants in my house and make sure I have a tree as we did in my parent’s house so it can give the house some shade.
Alejandro Reyes, architect, 37. I stay cool with architecture. My house was built with clay bricks that have special insulation in them. My house has a flat roof built with materials that reflect sunlight, such as white or light-colored coatings. I also designed it with large windows, doors, and openings to facilitate cross-ventilation. I think that is the main difference of why we can take more heat in Mexico, because things are built differently, including Mexicans.
Emilia Jiménez, 50, small business owner. As a woman in my 50s, navigating heatwaves is a balance between tradition and practicality. When the sun is shining overhead, I retreat indoors for noon siestas. Going outside means lightweight clothes, a big hat, and a constant supply of water to combat the heat. Back home, I rely on fans and closed windows. I only turn on the AC at night to sleep and put it on a timer.
Leonardo Torres, 18, university student. I think there’s not much to do anymore. There’s no way we can have less temperature now and we are all at fault here, and we are all equally guilty of being selfish and blasting AC. My mom says our house is cool because of the way it faces, but I am not sure as I feel like I am living in a soup every day.
