7 Ingenious Ways to Beat the Twin Cities Summer Heat

"Summertime, and the livin' is easy." That doesn't necessarily apply here in the Twin Cities, where the average temperature is in the mid-80s and the mercury can sometimes rise into the 90s.

No time for a dip in the resort-style pool at our Springs Twin Cities luxury communities? We've got you covered with these easy, inexpensive and creative ways to beat the heat this summer.

When you're feeling the heat, head for your favorite Mexican restaurant. An ice-cold Margarita helps, but so does a burrito or a couple of tacos. Yes, spicy foods raise your temperature, but it triggers your body's perspiration response that is nature's air conditioning system.

Iced coffee is refreshing, but take it one step further. Brew a fresh pot, let the coffee cool off and pour it into popsicle molds. If you're a hard-core coffee drinker, use espresso or add instant espresso crystals to some extra-strong coffee.

Have you seen the commercial neck wraps that keep your body cool? Get the same effect by soaking a t-shirt in cold water, wringing out the excess and wrapping it around your neck, repeating the process as desired. This is a great way to keep dogs cool as well.

Mint is a well-known refresher. Add fresh mint to iced green tea and pour into a spray bottle for a portable mister. Health and beauty aids like soap, facial toner and body lotion containing mint will also make revive your skin with a clean, fresh feel.

A few hours before bedtime, place your pillowcase in a plastic bag and put it in the freezer. If you want to increase the cooling sensation, add your sheets. Cotton and other natural fibers make the best choice for summer linens.

Summer is the perfect time to get that chic short hairstyle you've been wanting to try, while guys can rock a trendy man bun.

If you've entered a closed-up car that's been sitting in direct sunlight, you know all about the greenhouse effect. The same holds true for the windows in your Springs Apartments home. Keep blinds and curtains closed in the morning for east-facing windows and afternoon for west-facing windows. South-facing windows get sunlight all day, so plan accordingly.

How do you keep your cool during a Twin Cities summer? Share your tips in the comments!