So, it’s cold and wintery where I’m from (NJ in case you are wondering). And, I know this time of year can be tough- the holidays just ended, bills coming in, shorter days…I get it. But, I actually love this time of year because it means wearing comfy slippers and cuddling to keep warm!
Here are 8 more instant mood boosters to kick the winter blues to the curb and help us to stay warm without raising the thermostat…
Laugh Out Loud– Yep, laughter isn’t only the best medicine, it’s the best way to warm up, too! Your body temperature actually increases when you laugh because it activates your central nervous system! Plus, laughter is like a full-body workout, activating your abs, working the diaphragm, exercising the shoulders- all that inner activity makes us sweat! So, find your favorite funny movie, or have a tickle fest with your kids- just start laughing to warm up!
Twist and Shout– Instead of spending your night freezing on the couch because you’re trying to save on heating, have a dance party in your living room. Dancing, especially dances that engage your muscles like twisting, revs your inner thermostat so you get warmer, faster.
Hats On– Remember learning in school that 70% of your body heat is released from your head? Wearing a hat will definitely keep you warmer, so be a “frugalista”. Find a budget-friendly fashionable hat, and you’ll save on energy while staying warm!
Curling Couch Potato– Alright, so maybe there’s a night where curling up on the couch just suits your fancy! Since staying in the same spot for long periods of time can actually warm-up the area, and movement naturally raises our body temperature, combine the 2 for a commercial-break “couch curl”. You can grab a couple of household items (canned beans, potatoes, or light dumbbells) and keep them by your side. During a commercial break, use the items to do bicep curls, tricep kickbacks, overhead extensions. Get toned, stay warm, and relax all at once.
Pack ‘em In– Instead of sitting home alone shivering, have a group of girls over to watch American Idol or Glee! Having more people generates more heat, and for every degree you turn down your thermostat, you save about 3% on your heating bills. So, lower the heat and raise a ruckus by having a fun “Girls Night In!”
Layer Up to Create a Fire with Your Mate– So, you may be wondering what’s sexy about a woman in thermals, a long sleeve shirt, and a thick robe over top? EVERYTHING, especially when you get so warm you need to peel back the layers! And, don’t worry, once they’re off, snuggling will keep you comfy.
Dryer Zap– There’s nothing like a towel fresh out of the dryer, after a shower, or warm pajamas before you go to sleep… Time your laundry right, or just throw something in right before you want to wear it, and you’ll have warm clothes on-demand! A quick zap of the dryer, and you’ll stay warm for awhile after.
Spice It Up– Add cayenne pepper or jalapenos to your meal for instant heat. Spicy food raises our body temperature and can even make us sweat!! So, get creative and add salsa to your eggs, hot peppers to your salad, make a spicy carrot ginger soup for a double whammy of warmth and spice!!
