Winter is approaching the Pacific Northwest. This means chilly days, puffy coats, holidays, and most notably, sparkling white snow. Winter can be exciting in multiple ways, particularly with the upcoming holidays and spending time with loved ones. However, keeping warm is especially hard in these harsh winter conditions. Since there is no avoiding the cold this time of year, here are six tips to keep you toasty warm.
1. Winter gear
A winter coat or parka, an insulated hat, a pair of mittens/gloves, a scarf, and snow boots are essential items to surviving in harsh winter conditions. A $400 coat or a $200 pair of boots is not necessary and not an ideal component of requiring winter attire. Adding up all these items to your closet can be extremely costly as well. Elements like thrifting, warehouse clubs such as Costco, the clearance aisle of a store, and hand-me-downs are incredible ways of getting affordable winter gear, particularly in lowering expenses. Going to the Clothing Connections here on campus is also a great suggestion as they have a wide selection of clothing items. You can also get ten free items every term!
Tip: Instead of wearing one thick layer, wear multiple layers to keep warm.
2. Hand warmers
The disposable or rechargeable hand warmers are great for running errands or enjoying outdoor activities in the cold. Hand warmers can give you an extra boost of warmth and allow you to stay comfortable without freezing in low temperatures. CVS, Walgreens, Dollar Tree, and any convenience or drugstore, most likely, have disposable and affordable ten-packs. For a rechargeable one, Amazon is a wonderful place to find those.
3. Staying by the fire
Hanging around the fireplace can be relaxing specifically after a long, tough day of school or work. Whether it’s at your home or on campus at Wickiup Hall, it may rather be calming to sit by the mantel afterward spending time outside in the cold. The warmth and crackling sounds from the fire create the perfect comforting atmosphere to unwind during a chilly evening. Reading a book is one of the best ways to complete the ultimate cozy vibes.
4. Eating and drinking hot comfort foods
Ramen, soup, hot chocolate, apple cider, etc. are foods and drinks that can warm you up even on the coldest, most frigid day of the season. These foods don’t need to be the most gourmet and restaurant-quality style items. Chicken noodle soup in a can, Top Ramen, and instant powder drinks are great alternatives for tasty and simple wintertime food ideas on a budget. In addition to providing you with the utmost comfort, eating and drinking these products can warm up your whole body as well.
5. Cozy up with a blanket
Grab your favorite and softest blanket and wrap it around yourself for maximum snugness. Being wrapped up in a quilt on your bed or on a comfortable couch is a fabulous method to enjoy a peaceful afternoon as well as experiencing sheer tranquility and quiet. Several bonus suggestions would be to include a mug of your preferred steaming hot tea, a riveting book if you’re a reader, or searching for a comfort movie or TV show of your choice. These are pleasant recommendations for achieving a chill day or night that makes you want to stay in bed all day.
6. Baking
Baking does more than just make you feel toasty. It also has the combined perk of making your home or area smell sweet and divine, too. The concentration and mindfulness of this hobby might offer numerous benefits, in addition to relieving stress and improving your general mood. Your efforts can also result in a tasty reward! Since this activity isn’t universally appealing to everyone, some substitutes could be purchasing baked goods from a bakery and reheating them in the microwave rather than doing it yourself or using pre-made ingredients like cookie dough and cake box mixes.
