Scott Weaver
Updated at: November 19, 2024 · 5 min read
How To Keep Warm In Winter
Winter brings cold weather and shorter days, making it essential to keep warm to maintain your comfort and health. With rising energy costs, staying warm may feel challenging, but there are plenty of strategies you can adopt to keep cosy without breaking the bank. This guide explores practical ways to stay warm using exercise, diet, clothing, heat hacks, and tips to avoid illness.
Key Takeaways
Stay Active and Eat Smart
Exercise boosts blood flow and keeps you warm; activities like star jumps or brisk walking are great options. Eat calorie-rich foods and drink warm beverages like tea or hot chocolate to maintain energy and body heat.
Dress in Layers and Insulate Key Areas
Layer up with hats, scarves, gloves, and thick socks to trap heat. Wearing socks to bed adds extra warmth on chilly nights.
Use Simple Heat Hacks
Hot water bottles, heated blankets, and closing doors/windows can effectively retain warmth without increasing energy costs. A warm bath or shower can also heat your body and home.
Stay cosy and healthy this winter!
Why Does Your Body Feel Colder in Winter?
During winter, lower temperatures cause reduced blood flow to the skin and extremities, as your body works to conserve heat for vital organs. Heat is often lost through areas such as your head, neck, wrists, and ankles, making these key spots to focus on when staying warm.
1. Stay Warm Through Physical Exercise
Does Exercise Help in Winter?
Yes! Exercise increases blood flow, raising your body temperature and keeping you warm. Try activities like:
Star jumps
Running
Brisk walking
These exercises not only warm you up but also keep you active and energised.
Can Breathing Techniques Keep You Warm?
While meditation and forceful breathing techniques alone may not directly raise your body temperature, they can help manage stress, which indirectly benefits your overall health and resilience to the cold.
2. Eat and Drink for Warmth
Does Food Play a Role in Staying Warm?
Yes! Your body burns calories to maintain heat, so eating enough can help keep you warm. Focus on:
Calorie-dense foods: Provide energy for warmth.
Vitamin B12-rich foods: Improve blood circulation. Sources include meat, fish, eggs, and dairy.
Spicy foods: Boost circulation temporarily and contain vitamins like C and D.
Are Hot Drinks Effective?
Absolutely. Warm drinks like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate can quickly heat you up from the inside out. Avoid sugary or highly caffeinated options if consumed in excess.
Does Alcohol Keep You Warm?
While alcohol may make you feel warm temporarily by increasing blood flow to the skin, it can actually lower your core temperature, so it’s best avoided as a heating solution.
3. Dress Smartly for Winter
Is Layering Clothing Important?
Wearing multiple layers traps heat close to your body. Focus on insulating areas like:
Head: Wear a hat.
Neck: Use a scarf.
Wrists and ankles: Keep covered with gloves and thick socks.
Should You Wear Socks to Bed?
Yes! Socks help retain heat, particularly if your room is cold. Combine with pyjamas for extra warmth.
4. Heat Hacks for a Cosy Winter
Hot Water Bottles
Using a hot water bottle is a cost-effective way to stay warm. It can provide heat for hours, improve circulation, and help you relax.
Heated Blankets or Mattresses
Electric blankets and heated mattress pads are energy-efficient ways to stay warm. Ensure you purchase high-quality options to avoid safety risks.
Close Doors and Windows
Keep doors and windows shut to prevent draughts and retain heat indoors. Even well-insulated homes can benefit from this simple step.
Take Warm Baths or Showers
A hot bath or shower warms your body and releases steam that can heat your home if you leave the bathroom door open afterwards.
5. Prevent Illness to Stay Warm
How to Avoid Winter Illness
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
Avoid touching your face, especially after being in public spaces.
Take vitamin C and D supplements to strengthen your immune system.
When to See a Doctor
Visit your GP if you experience:
Persistent fever
Difficulty breathing
Continuous symptoms beyond a common cold
Final Thoughts
Staying warm in winter doesn’t have to mean turning up the thermostat. Combining smart clothing choices, warm drinks, physical activity, and cost-effective heating methods can help you stay comfortable without overspending. Take care of your health by maintaining good hygiene and eating a balanced diet, and don’t forget to check in with your doctor if you feel unwell. Winter is best enjoyed when you’re warm and well-prepared!
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