Winter has descended, and it sure is cold. I have been doing all I can to say warm while walking around campus, and just because school has released for Christmas break doesn't mean that we get to avoid the chill. That being said, here are some ways to keep warm this winter, whether you will be inside or outside.
1. Winter clothes
If you’re one of those people that put away clothes as the seasons go by, then I have news for you. It’s time to start bringing those sweaters and pants out because Christmas’ approach usually symbolizes that it’s about to start getting cold (if it hasn't already).
2. Heater
True, the heater may add to your energy bill, but if it keeps you warm and healthy through the winter, you might as well turn it on. If you don’t feel like it, maybe you can invest in a plug-in heater.
3. Warming drinks
So coffee or hot chocolate just isn’t your cup of hot tea? It’s always nice to try new things. Hot coffee, hot chocolate, and hot tea can keep you warm if you’re walking around in the cold air.
Hey! If you’re of legal drinking age, whiskey was made to keep one feeling warm. So, why not try it?
4. Blankets
Extra blankets or even thermal blankets can do wonders for the cold. If you don’t have enough or just don’t feel like getting any extras out of the boxes, there’s always Snuggies or robes.
5. Cuddles
Now, I know not everyone has a significant other, but you don’t necessarily need one for this option of warmth. Go out and hug your local friend or sibling! Become one with your inner penguin.
6. Exercise
If you’re anything like me, when the cold air hits, you don’t want to take a step outside or even move away from your warm spot on the couch, but it might be best if you do just that. Exercise can keep you warm. Just walking will get your blood pumping and allow you to not freeze.
7. Vents
It’s probably not the safest option, but I often stand on the air vents in my home’s floor. It thaws my feet and allows me some warmth before sitting on the cold couch.
8. Hand Warmers
A habit of my friends’ in high school marching band was to carry around these little warming pouches. During an especially cold football game one year, we stuck these things everywhere: scarves, gloves, socks, and even bras.
They may be small, but they sure can release some heat.
You can also make your own heating pouches called rice babies.
9. Staying inside
On campus, we have options: sit outside or sit inside. My advice for winter is that you sit inside as often as you can. The air conditioners may still be on, but it’s probably warmer in there than it is outside.
10. “No ice, please.”
Taking a water, coffee, or soda to-go? Maybe it’s best you don’t get any ice in any of those because drinking a cold drink while it's already cold air outside may just aggravate your throat and lungs.
It’s kind of like chewing mint gum and then drinking cold water. Ouch.
11. Warm meals
“I’ll take the soup.” Or the warm sandwich, or the leftover spaghetti from last night's dinner. Yeah, I might heat up the leftover pizza for dinner. Or maybe I’ll have a nice bowl of noodles.
As my sister says, with the happiest of looks, “Ministroni!”
12. Laundry
One of the best things I must say in the world, is warm clothes from the dryer. So the moment you hear that your laundry is done, bury yourself in the clothes.
There's a sad realization that comes with the winter: those that are homeless will likely be going cold. As a spread of kindness, we should all try to donate jackets and blankets to those in need. A warm meal could do wonders for someone who hasn't had a home in a while. Let's take this advantage of this season to show care for those not overseas but in our own neighborhoods.
May the year coming start off right.
