As fall comes to an end and the temperatures begin to drop (well, depending on where you live), how can we manage to stay warm throughout the harsh winter months? Whether you look forward to that first snowfall or have already started counting down the days until summer, these tips can help you stay warm throughout the colder months of the year.
Stay active
Remain as active as possible! There are several ways to increase your body temperature even around the house. Consider cleaning the house, walking up and down the stairs a couple of times, playing a game or actually going somewhere to exercise. Try to avoid sitting for extended periods of time. Getting up and moving around at least once an hour can help to increase your circulation and generate more body heat.
Avoid alcohol
A common misconception is that alcohol warms your body. Alcohol acts as a vasodilator, meaning it causes your blood vessels to expand. While the dilation of blood vessels in your skin may cause you to feel warm, your body temperature is not actually changing. Instead, heat is being redistributed, such that your vital organs lose heat. When temperatures are cold, your blood vessels typically constrict to direct blood to your vital organs. Since alcohol reverses this process, it can actually be dangerous. To protect against frostbite and hypothermia in the frigid temperatures, it is best to avoid drinking alcohol in excess.
Have warm food and drinks
Cold weather is the perfect excuse to indulge in your favourite hot drinks and food. Sit by the fireplace with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea and make your favourite porridge, soups, or stews. Using the oven or stove also adds extra heat in your place (but never use the oven to actually heat your home – save that job for the furnace).
Bundle up!
Cold weather means it is time to start dressing in layers! Whether you are inside or outside, adding layers helps to insulate your body and allows you to regulate your body temperature by adding or removing layers. Remember to keep your extremities warm with thick socks, hats and gloves to make your entire body feel warmer. Fabrics such as wool, cotton or fleece help to keep your body the warmest.
Have any other suggestions for staying warm in the freezing cold? Let us know in the comments!
Ditch the cold library.
The Minute School app on mobile makes it simple to cozy up while studying.