In Andalusia, they rely on mild weather to cope with the nighttime heat.
When the thermometer flirts with 35°C during the day and the heat lingers well after sunset, the Andalusians have developed well-honed strategies. In this Spanish region where heat waves are a regular feature of the summer, certain techniques are passed down almost like family secrets.
Among the most widespread rituals, one might surprise you: taking a lukewarm shower before bed. While one might imagine that cold water brings immediate refreshment, southerners prefer a more enveloping approach to better cope with nighttime temperatures.
This little habit is based on a precise observation of what really helps the body fall asleep when the air is heavy and the room refuses to cool down.
Why a cold shower isn't your best ally
Faced with a sweltering night ahead, the instinct to reach for ice water seems obvious. The idea is simple: cool the body down quickly to feel better. However, experts explain that this strategy isn't the smartest.
When we are exposed to very cold water, the body undergoes what is called thermal shock. As a result, the body mobilizes all its energy to return to its normal temperature. Instead of promoting relaxation, this mechanism keeps the body in a state of alertness.
In other words, even if the feeling of coolness is pleasant in the moment, it doesn't prepare you for sleep at all. The body remains active, in "regulation" mode, for much longer than you might think.
That's why in warmer regions, an alternative that is much more respectful of the body's natural needs is preferred.
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