Here in Delaware, sometimes it seems like the weather is either too hot or too cold. Although we have four seasons, there doesn’t seem to be a great deal of time in between summer’s heat and winter’s chill.
And now that winter is here, whether it be the shorter days, the colder weather, or a succession of them both — this time of year, it’s easy to get sad indoors while it gets seriously cold outdoors.
To battle the cold, the cabin fever, and a severe case of the blues, we at Delaware Heating and Air compiled the following tips to help you stay warm AND happy this winter.
LAYER UP
In the frigid chill of winter, it’s essential to remember to layer up. Some wear as many as five to six layers. Piling on these few extra layers like this is an excellent method to stay warm, especially if you have to be outside. If you bustle up a sweat or get warmed up out there in the cold, you can always layer down. Trying thermals, extra socks, and gloves are a must as well.
EMBRACE THE WEATHER
Take your kids or some friends sledding. Build a snowman. Try ice skating. Find something fun to do in this winter wonderland. It won’t be winter forever.
Embracing the opportunity to enjoy the most wondrous things about this time of year can help with your mood. When you embrace rather than hating what’s around you, your positive thoughts will replace your negative ones– especially when it has to do with the weather. Attitude is everything — especially in the snow.
So next time your thoughts start to gravitate toward your cold hands or freezing toes, think back upon the bright side — you have a nice warm home waiting for you with exceptional HVAC. Remember, spending some time outside is good for your health.
HEALTHY DIET
Most of us know that eating healthy in the winter is essential to building your immune system to fight colds and the flu. But has anyone ever mentioned that good eating habits also speeds up your body’s metabolism? This, in turn, improves body heat.
However, if your New Year’s goal is to lose a few pounds, don’t worry — you can always pass on the extra fat and strive to eat warmer foods that are nutrient-dense along with healthy drinks. Have some coffee or tea. Sample some spicy foods and soups. Hot chocolate or cider are other seasonal favorites. Just remember, watch the sugar.
THE RIGHT TEMPERATURE
Fixing your thermostat at the same temperature night and day will help stop your pipes from freezing up and breaking. While it might be a little tempting to try to evade a higher heating bill, you could be protecting yourself from expensive repairs from frozen or busted pipes.
Getting a programmable thermostat is a great solution for this HVAC issue. If you don’t get one, remember if you are going to be away from home for an extended length of time, don’t lower the temp below 55 degrees. It’s not worth it.
KEEP THAT BLOOD FLOWING
During the winter season, we come up with all sorts of justifications to avoid getting a workout in or going to the gym, especially when it gets super cold.
However, we say take full advantage of those brighter, crisp cool days, even if it’s just going for a walk. You’ll find some daily responsibilities, like shoveling the snow, can help give you a workout. Just make sure you don’t strain yourself.
And if the walk to the gym in freezing cold is the real barrier, follow those who develop a regimen that you can incorporate from home. It’s a great way to move your muscles and bones and enhance blood flow without leaving the house. Get that blood flowing. It’ll keep you warmer and happier. When it comes to fitness, if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.
SMILE WITH PURPOSE
Whether you get involved with a project in your school, a community-based event, or a bigger organization scheme of some sort, it gives you a feeling of personal purpose to partake in projects. This sort of individual responsibility to others and engaging in something bigger than oneself is a fundamental value to life, experts say. When you find a purpose in your life, the cold weather becomes a distant minor obstacle.
MORE ON DIET, AND DETOX
The only thing better than beating a cold or the flu is not getting it in the first place
Some experts credit their supercharged immune system to drinking lots of water and always getting a regular night’s sleep.
In addition to that, keeping your body free of toxins will take you a long way,
We’re not saying you should drink only lemonade for ten days straight, or consume gallons of water eating only fruit.
But at the same time, every person is responsible for their own nutritious cleansing routines.
Foods high in fiber, all-natural, nutrient-dense, and low on fats will go a long way in keeping your system clean. Remember, small, well-rounded meals planned throughout the day will take you and your health a long way as well. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains high in fiber are ideal.
In all this, we want to emphasize that each individual is responsible for their own happiness, just as well as we should keep ourselves warm and safe this winter.
Just remember, the new year, another spring and summer is not far away. None of us would appreciate the beauty of those times without embracing the frigid days of now.
For more information, or for a tune-up, call Delaware Heating & Air today at 740-227-8302 or schedule an appointment online now at https://www.delawareairandheat.com/schedule-now/.