Methods to stay warm

Cold, anyone? Now that winter has officially arrived, there will be freezing temperatures, frigid winds, and the typical struggle to stay warm. So this winter, we've come up with some clever strategies to keep warm without harming the environment in order to warm your body and soul.

Have a blanket close by

Although it may seem apparent, using a blanket at home is a terrific way to remain warm. Keep one on the sofa, so you can curl up under it while watching the box, and place a nice thick one on top of your duvet for an extra layer of warmth at night.

Make use of a hot water bottle throughout the day

It's not necessary to save hot water bottles for sleep. Take it to the sofa, zip it up under your coat for a long stroll, use it to warm your car seat before you leave for work, or simply sit it on your lap at work when you have this rubbery buddy filled with hot water. It will make you feel radiant wherever you go.

Savor decadent hot chocolate

The best way to warm up is to drink a hot beverage, which raises your body temperature and warms you from the inside out. Avoid overheating the hot drink, however, since if it's hot enough to make you sweat, you'll lose all the warmth you just gained. Treat yourself to a hot chocolate with marshmallows, whipped cream, honeycomb shavings, and a drizzle of caramel to lift your spirits on a gloomy day.

Indulge in greasy foods

Eating fatty foods can feed the internal furnace of our bodies. Because fat takes longer to metabolize than other foods, it helps keep us warm for extended periods of time. Our body utilizes energy to digest food, which makes us feel warmer.

Employ draft excluders

Installing a draft excluder under your door is an easy solution to keep warm and comfortable at home. These can be purchased for only a few dollars, or if you're skilled with a sewing machine, consider making your own. Thermal linings in your drapes and keyhole covers are two more easy ways to keep the cold air out and the heat in.

Use the oven

No question, a wholesome, home-cooked meal warms the cockles. However, there's a bonus to baking and stewing in the oven. After using the cooker for the last time, turn it off and leave the oven door open if there are no dogs or small children nearby. The warm air will be able to leave the space in this way.