5 Ways To Warm Up To Winter

A Winter Wonderland … It sounds so whimsical, pops pretty pictures into your head, and is snow dusted with the lure of surprise. It’s what I was seeking (somewhat ambitiously) when I conducted an impromptu survey of colleagues to discover their favourite things about winter. My aim was to adopt some of their wintry delights and improve my own chilly experience.

The research findings (winter’s best of) included: Skiing, Open Fireplaces, Soup, Coats and Boots. Food and fashion always thrill me, so tick tick there. A skiing trip would be oh so lovely, but oh so unlikely. And the closest access I have to an open fire is the sparks flying from the building site near work.

So I’ve put my thinking beanie on, nice and snug, and come up with some ways to not just endure winter, but to enjoy all its possibilities.

Colour your world

It’s true black clothes are easy to wear and flattering. But uplifting on a dreary day? Not so much. To add colour to your day: wear something in your favourite shade, make a statement with accessories, or carry a fun umbrella. A bright bunch of flowers on your desk or in your living room will also help offset the darker skies.

Warm up – while you shape up

Hitting the gym, instead of the couch, will make you feel much better after a day of sitting – yes that’s you and your circulation office worker! For convenience and motivation, change into your gym gear before you leave the office. Exercising straight after work warms you up and gives you the energy to make a healthy dinner when you get home. Once summer arrives, you’ll be fitter and feel great.

Up the affection

Body heat can be a welcome companion at this time of year and provide beautiful moments of connection. Savour your couch snuggles with your partner, child or pet. Bundle friends together in your living room with a board game and home cooking. And when you’re with a loved one on a cold, windy day, walk arm in arm to create a lovely moment in crummy conditions.

Find great space

Winter’s the perfect time to discover fabulous interior design – in restaurants, pubs, tea rooms, cheese shops, wine bars and so. A unique place is an excellent reason to leave the house, bring friends and family together and create happy memories.

Try something rewarding

Less time outdoors opens up space for the new and novel. Lift your spirits with something fun and physical like ice skating, a dance class or indoor rock climbing. Learn about a topic that interests you through an online course, or go to classes and workshops to meet people at the same time. Give back by volunteering for a cause or organisation that’s meaningful to you.

Emma Delahey