As we enter the cold months and energy prices are still very high, we need to be creative with how we keep ourselves warm. We have a number of tips to keep yourself warm without turning on the heating.
1. Hot food
Eating yourself hot is easier than you think: leave cold food such as yogurt, fruit or salads in the refrigerator, and eat a hot breakfast such as an omelette, oatmeal or waffles. Also choose food with healthy fats and proteins: this digests slowly, so you can keep yourself warm for longer. You can also eat spicy herbs such as chili pepper, ginger or cinnamon.
2. Hot drinks
You’ve probably heard of this: drinking hot drinks to warm yourself. Think of soup, tea or hot chocolate. These drinks not only warm your body, but also your hands. Would you rather drink mulled wine or coffee? Alcohol and caffeine are not the best choices: alcohol causes your blood vessels to expand, causing you to quickly lose body heat, while caffeine causes blood vessels to constrict, which slows down blood flow.
3. Layers
It is important to dress in layers, there is even a system behind this: the three-layer system:
- Moisture regulating base layer: This includes thermal clothing such as undershirts and leggings. The synthetic materials or merino wool ensure that you retain your body heat, while regulating moisture.
- Insulating intermediate layer: Consider ‘normal’ clothing such as sweaters and jeans. This layer protects you against the cold, and is also nice and soft and breathable. In addition, you can simply wear a nice outfit, while you can warm yourself properly.
- Protective outer layer: Top it off with a good waterproof and windproof jacket. This keeps you dry and warm. You can also exchange it at home for a soft plaid, thick cardigan or sturdy body warmer.
4. Tools
Other products to warm yourself are warm plaids, cherry pit cushions, an electric blanket or a hot water bottle. These tools make a huge difference in keeping you warmer, while keeping your energy bill from skyrocketing.
5. Warm each other
Your partner, your friends, your family members or your pet: you can give them endless hugs. Not only because you love them, but also to stay nice and warm! Oxytocin is also released in the brain during a hug, which creates a happy feeling and reduces stress levels. You don’t have to tell us anymore that this cuddle hormone and the warmth make you happy.
