The age-old struggle of the winter months is figuring out how to stay warm. Each person is different, with different needs and tolerances when the temperature dips below zero.
That being said, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to keeping warm. This guide will provide many solutions for you to try until you find what works best for you:
1. Utilize Heating Products
There are a plethora of different heating products you can utilize to stay warm this winter. From large appliances to small personal items, with enough searching, you’ll be able to find the perfect product for you.
This list of options can help you get started:
- Heated pads
- Electric blanket
- Fuzzy indoor socks
- Space heater
- Smart thermostat
- Humidifier
These gadgets and so much more can be used to keep you toasty and comfortable no matter how cold it gets. When all else fails, bundle up in a few extra layers.
2. Get Some Exercise
Nothing gets your blood moving better than some quality exercise. Getting your heart pumping will not only heat you up nicely, but it will also build up endorphins that help fight off seasonal depression. Keeping seasonal depression at bay is just as important to staying warm as anything else.
With how cold it will be outside, you might want to look at options for exercising indoors. Local gyms following COVID-19 safety guidelines are an option, or you can look for ways to get exercise in your own home.
3. Make Some Home Repairs
If your home struggles to stay warm no matter what you do, it might be time to make some needed repairs. Cracks and crevices in doors and windows will let in the cold even with your hearing system cranked up all the way.
You can schedule an inspection in your online calendar to get an exact diagnosis for what’s needed, or try and do some handiwork yourself. Start by covering the cracks of windows and entryways that let in cool drafts. Then, look for anything in the integrity of your home that might be letting in some unwanted air.
Some repairs will require a professional, such as your central heating system. It’s a good idea to get this checked before winter really sets in so you can be completely sure that your heating system is functional.
4. Pull Back the Blinds
Natural sunlight does an excellent job of heating your home even in the winter. Not only is it effective, but it also doesn’t cost a thing, helping you maintain a manageable heating bill throughout the winter months. All you need to do is set some calendar reminders to pull back the blinds in the morning to let the sunshine in.
Besides keeping you warm, natural sunlight also does wonders for your mental health. It’s one of the most effective treatments for seasonal depression, giving you all the more reason to pursue natural sunlight this winter.
5. Stay Hydrated
Drinking water might not be on your mind, as being thirsty is typically associated with warmth and movement. However, proper hydration is still important in cold weather. Getting plenty of fluids ensures that your body circulation is up to par, maintaining proper body temperature and control.
If you struggle with staying hydrated in the winter, use your online calendar to set reminders. Need something a little warmer? A cup of coffee or an occasional hot chocolate will warm you up while still helping you keep hydrated.
6. Keep Dry
Whenever possible, do your best to stay dry. Nothing will steal your warmth faster than wet clothes, no matter what you do to keep warm. Changing into dry replacements is the best way to regain warmth.
When traveling, whether commuting to work or going on a trip, be sure to pack plenty of replacement clothes. An extra pair of socks, in particularity, can come in the clutch when walking through the snow has you freezing from the bottom up.
7. Turn on the Fan
This might sound counter-intuitive at first, but hear this out. Hot air rises to the ceiling, where it won’t do much good in heating you up. Turning your ceiling fan on the lowest setting will push that air down, keeping the entire room warm from top to bottom.
Turn your ceiling fan on too high and you will feel a cool breeze that won’t do any good. Also, remember to turn the ceiling fan off to avoid high utility bills.
8. Pick Up Baking
Baked goods will warm your stomach and your heart, making it the perfect winter activity when you’re feeling a bit chilled. Christmas cookies and pies also make for great gifts for family, friends, neighbors and coworkers.
The appliances you use while cooking will also help heat up your home and kitchen. Keeping the oven propped open when you’re through with it is especially effective. Just be sure not to leave it unattended and to turn it off when you’re through.
9. Take a Warm Shower
Taking a steamy, warm shower will get your body temperature up first thing in the morning. Warm showers are also relaxing, reducing winter stress and allowing you to focus on the day ahead. This makes for a solid daily routine to ward off the cold.
Don’t completely disregard cold showers as a possible option. While warming up will take some extra effort, cold showers boost your immune system from winter bugs and can wake you up more effectively.
No need to fret, Spring will be here before you know it. Until then, try these warmth tips on for size. Any effort to stay warm will help to some effect, helping you enjoy the winter months that much more.
Hunter Meine
Hunter Meine is a BYU-Idaho graduate, husband, father, and writer. When he's not writing, he's playing sports or enjoying the outdoors with his wife and daughter.