Audrey Willis 3m 768 #wintersurvival
The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.
Staying Warm This Winter
Winter is the time of the year when you have to resort to all sorts of warming measures, if you want to ward off the bone numbing chill and brutal weather. And not to mention the slippery sidewalks, shoveling out the snow from the driveway and dealing with flu and Vit. D deficiency. And this year, winter seems to be harsher than ever thanks to global warming!
So, how do you survive winter and its accompanying perils? Here are my top 4 winter survival secrets that are sure to keep you safe and warm.
Layer Up
Courtesy of https://joannemarasigan.com/
If you’re looking to survive winter and not freeze to death, then you’re going to need to layer up. Multiple layered clothing will insulate your body against the low temperature. Here is how you can layer your clothes:
- The base or first layer should be of wicking material. Avoid cotton as it will trap moisture inside. Make sure you use fabrics as indicated here. Use the same wicking material base layer for the bottom and top.
- The second layer should be of wool, fleece or down. This will keep you warm and alsotransfer the moisture to the outer layer. As in the base layer, avoid cotton as it will absorb moisture and retain dampness which is not good.
- The third or outermost layer should be chosen based on the condition of weather you are exposed to. Basically the garment should protect you from wind, sleet, snow, rain etc. So, choose accordingly a breathable, windproof or waterproof garment.
In addition to the clothes you wear, make sure you add the right accessories to complete your defense for the cold. Warm and waterproof gloves for your hands, helmet or beanie for your head, facemask or scarf and goggles for your eyes are necessary, if you are to venture out.
Getting a Fireplace!
A fireplace is one of the best ways to keep the room warm and pleasant. It is perfect for warming up during chilly weather. While there are modern heating systems available, a fireplace with real fire is just the right winter remedy to let the warmth seep into every pore of your body.
Modern day fireplaces are designed for economy and are attractive to look at too. For instance, the stacked stone fireplace like the Nordston Rock Panels is a great way to build a natural looking stone fireplace. The panels are available in modular structure and the stacked stone design makes it easy to install on any type of solid surface.
Soup Sundays!
Now to the most delectable part of keeping warm – consume more calories and liquids to keep up the energy and hydration levels. Energy bars, nuts, power bars etc. will help in increasing the calorie intake, while for hydration drink liquids as much as you can.
One way to keep the liquid levels high is drinking soup. You can make soup every Sunday. Not only is it a great family tradition, but you will also have enough left over to last the entire week. I love making chili and chicken noodle soup, but there are a tons of great recipes both meat and veggie varieties you can find here that you can dish up easily.
Make a Habit of Buying Flowers to Store Inside
You may have heard of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) which usually peaks up in winter and fades away in summer.
From depression and sleep issues to low energy and suicidal thoughts, it can wreak havoc with your health, if you are not careful. SAD usually starts to make a significant impact around your early 20s, so if you’re young and starting to feel some of these symptoms you may want to see a doctor.
While medication and psychotherapy is offered, there are several alternative treatment options like aromatherapy. I make it a habit of buying flowers to help fight against my winters blues. They look and smell great.
Wondering how aromatherapy and interior colors can help improve your mood?
Well, aromatherapy and lighter colored interiors make the place look brighter and more welcoming. The flowers remind me of spring and help ward off the depression that sets in from being cooped up during winter.
The important factor to keep in mind during cold weather is ensuring your core temperature is warm. The extremely low temperatures tend to sap all your energy and heat from you. You will have to balance this loss by all means. I hope my four tips help in keeping the chilly weather at bay and enjoy winter without freezing up.
(
