How to Stay Nice and Cozy During Winter

Towards the end of each year, the temperatures start dropping, it starts getting dark earlier and the winter season shows up. For snow lovers, this is great news. Playing in the snow, building a snowman and warming up with hot chocolate when you come back inside can be a fun experience.

Even if you aren't a fan of the cold winter months, there are some things you can do to stay warm and cozy, even on brutally cold days.

One of the best ways to stay comfortable during winter is to wear layers. Layers are beneficial not only because the combined layers can help keep you warm, but also because you can easily remove a layer or two if you find you are getting too hot. Try to wear layers on your torso in particular.

This is where the major organs are, and the core where your body is going to work hard to stay warm. When this happens, the heat is taken from your hands and feet first. When you are wearing layers on your core, this is less likely to happen, and you are less likely to shiver as well.

On brutally cold days, it is best to stay inside as much as you can. When the windchill drops below 0, or the temperatures are simply bone-chilling, avoiding the outdoors is your best bet for staying warm.

Blankets and a fire in the fireplace can help keep you feeling warm and cozy inside while the weather is unbearable outside. If you do need to leave, avoid staying outside for more than a few minutes whenever you can. Plan outdoor activities on warmer days if possible.

As mentioned earlier, the hands and feet are often the first places to lose heat when the body is trying to conserve warmth. This is why you often notice that your hands or feet feel cold, even when the rest of you feels warm. Feet can be difficult to keep warm, as they are often in contact with cold floors.

Wearing socks can easily solve this problem. Some warm holiday socks can keep your feet warm and comfortable. There are a variety of different materials to choose from, so it shouldn't be difficult to find a pair or two that keep your feet at an ideal temperature.

While most people have hair on their heads to keep them warm, it often doesn't feel like enough in bitter temperatures. Wearing a hat can help protect your head from being exposed to the cold, which will help make you feel warmer.

A wool hat has several benefits, such as increased protection from wind and water resistance. They may be your best bet for cold days, especially ones that are snowy or rainy. No matter what material you choose for your hat, be sure that it is thick and can provide the protection you need from chilly weather.

The more you move, the less cold you are likely to feel. If you are outside and find yourself shivering, try walking around or even jumping up and down. Doing this will help you warm up.

However, try not to overdo it, because if you get too hot, your body will kick into gear trying to cool you down. This usually leads to sweating, which is the last thing you want in low temperatures. Taking breaks during activity can help you prevent this.

Staying warm during the winter months can be tricky, but planning ahead can help you be prepared for the brutal weather. Layers can be a great way to protect your torso from the cold, while offering the advantage of being able to remove a layer if you find you are too warm.

Of course, staying indoors whenever possible is common sense when the temperature is simply frigid. Keeping extremities and your head covered can prevent heat loss. Staying active when outdoors can help raise your body temperature.