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Carson Tahoe HealthHere are some oh so lovely ways to keep warm as the temperatures go down.
Layer up
Although you might think that big winter jumpers are the way to go, wearing layers of thin clothes will keep you warmer as they trap body heat.
Eat well and drink warm
While having a hot tea or coffee may make you feel warmer, it’s more to do with the caffeine. That is because caffeine increases blood flow to the skin. You may feel warmer as a result, but your body is actually losing heat. Alcohol has the same effect. Try sticking to decaffeinated or herbal hot drinks instead.
Eating regular meals will also help keep you warm. Healthy hearty foods such as soup and stews are great for warming you up. Try to include carbohydrates in your dishes too. Stews and soups are great winter-warmers.
Get moving
Working out in the cold may be the last thing you feel like doing this winter but it has the opposite effect too. As well as giving you a rush of endorphins which boosts mood, exercise will get the blood pumping around your body and, vitally, heat up your skin.
Stay social
With chilly, longer nights in winter, you might feel like hibernating at home rather than catching up with friends, but research shows the latter might help with the warm and fuzzies – literally. Scientists discovered social exclusion makes you feel colder than if you were socializing and spending time with people, which warms you up.
Try to keep an active social life this winter to help keep the cold at bay and boost your mood.
Snuggle up
Save on your electricity bills this winter and get cozy with warm blankets instead. Maybe even dig out your hot water bottle, although you should never use it in bed when using an electric blanket too. While sleeping, ensure you stay toasty by wearing pajamas and bed socks to keep your feet from getting cold overnight.
And while you’re all snuggled up, knowing you are doing your bit for the environment (and wallet) by saving energy can leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling too.
Caleb Vasquez
