Top 5 Simple Green Ways to Stay Warm in Winter

1. Get the chores done. Moving around increases heart rate and body temperature—the most natural way to stay warm. I work from home, and when I start to feel chilly, it’s usually a sign that I’ve been sitting at the computer too long. That’s when I get up and run a load of laundry, change the sheets or prepare something for dinner. The activity alone warms me up without having to turn up the thermostat. As a bonus, chores are done.
2. Imbibe in a warm beverage. From a hot chocolate to a hot toddy, a toasty drink goes a long way in warming your hands and your insides. Choose tea and reap cancer-reducing, heart-healthy side benefits. I start my day with a mug of green tea and often have an herbal cup in the evenings.
3. Choose your materials wisely. Cover bare floors with area rugs. Use flannel sheets on the beds. Switch to heavier curtains that cover window drafts. Bring out the afghans for snuggling. A cozier house equals a cozier you.
4. Go to bed with a Hottie. Hot water bottles are making a comeback in a much more stylish way than ever before. Turn down the heat at night, fill up one of these with hot water and put it between your sheets. (I like mine by my chilly feet.) The warmth lasts for hours. These hotties are handmade in Rhode Island.
5. Add a little spice. What you eat affects your internal temperature. Obviously, enjoying soups and stews warms the body up. But did you know that certain spices and herbs (ginger, black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and garlic) increase circulation? Plus, foods high in healthy fats, like nuts and nut butters, help regulate body temperature. So spice it up from the inside out. Your body and your energy bills will thank you.

This post is featured on Small Footprint Friday, Simple Lives Thursday, Simply Natural Saturdays and Thank Your Body Thursday.