Ways to Stay Warm This Winter

Winter is here. Many parts of the country are dealing with artic blasts of cold air. However, there are ways in which we can deal with this cold air and stay warm.

First, before we discuss the ways of staying warm, we should discuss the two main reasons why warmth is important to our body. Without heat, our body can suffer from two main ailments: hypothermia and frostbite. These are two serious conditions.

When you are looking for signs of frostbite look for: tingling of your hands, fingers and toes. Also pay attention to the color of your skin. Has it changed any? Pain is a bad sign. This means that the frost bite is getting worse and you need to take action.

Hypothermia can be hard for a person to recognize. It comes on slowly and since one of the symptoms is confusion, it isn't easily recognized by the person. Other symptoms can include: trembling, shivering, loss of coordination and lack of energy.

Now that you know the basic signs that may indication you are suffering from a health related problem due to the cold weather, let's look at ways to stay warm:

Bundle up. Wear your warmest clothes.

Dress in layers. If you are dressed in layers, you can slowly shed as you become warmer or as you enter a warmer climate.

Wear gloves and a hat whenever you are outside.

Invest in thermo gloves and socks to wear when you are outside.

Wear water resistant and insulated boots when there is rain or snow in the forecast. Keeping your feet warm and dry is essential when the weather is cold.

When you are inside consider these options:

Use a space heater as extra heat, as long as you are near it and keep watch over it. Never leave it on when you are away from it and never leave it on while you are sleeping. Even the best heaters can pose a fire hazard when they are unsupervised.

Light a fire if you have a fireplace.

Purchase some warm pajamas and actually wear them.

Add a blanket or two to your bed.

Snuggle up under a soft blanket as you watch television.

Drink hot drinks to warm up your insides. Hot chocolate is almost everyone's favorite during the winter. Add some marshmallows for added flavor.

Finally, cuddle up with that special someone you love. Winter is a great season for snuggling.

Keep warm with these stay warm winter tips and keep your thoughts warm by dreaming of the upcoming spring and summer.