Staying Warm in the Winter

By Donna Stark

Winter is here and the comfortable days of fall weather are long gone. There is less sunlight and more darkness to the days and everything (and I mean everything) seems to take more effort because it is so darn cold outside. You need to warm up, and you would like to do so without those astronomical heating bills, but what can you do? Well, everyone deserves a warm, cozy home, and if you follow the simple tips below, you may be able to thaw yours out a bit.

Use Rugs

If your home has tile or hardwood floors, you may want to consider investing in a few area rugs. Rugs are an easy way to keep your rooms warmer and your feet toastier, but you need to select the right kind. For maximum warmth, choose a thicker style of rug that covers the majority of the space or select a couple of smaller ones to spread over the area.

Cuddle With Your Pet

There is no better way to get warm than to grab your four-legged friend, place them on your lap, and cuddle the night away. Let them fall asleep on you while you watch your favorite program or catch up on your reading. 

Grab Some Blankets

Did you know that when you sit, your circulation slows down? This is one of the main reasons why you should keep some extra blankets on or near your couch. Blankets are the perfect way to increase your warmth and comfort without ever needing to touch the thermostat.

Turn on the Hot Water

Do you dread those cold sheets on your bed at night? Do you wish you could warm them up before you climb into them? Fill a hot water bottle and place it between your blankets at the foot of your bed. It will help warm them up and will keep your toes nice and toasty.

Let the Sun In

Curtains have another use other than making a room pretty  they can be used to help regulate your home's temperature. When the sun is out, open them up and let it shine into your home, and then do the opposite at night. This will help keep the heat inside where everyone wants it to stay.

Reverse Ceiling Fans

We've all been taught in elementary school that heat rises, so if your home has ceiling fans, take the time to reverse their direction. Switching the direction your fan's spin will help push the warmer air back down to the ground.

Warming Up the New Year

Don't enter the new year already chilled to the bone. By following the simple steps above, you can cut back on heating costs and help everyone in the home thaw out!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Bellevue, Wash.