Tips on Keeping Warm this Winter

‘Tis the season for the burrs, shivers, and chills. As the temperatures drop, it’s very important that your layers increase and your body heat is maintained. Obviously, we all know you can’t go out in a tank top and flip flops but there are some crucial tips on keeping warm that many of us do not utilize.

We’ll start from head to toe on how to keep yourself in tiptop shape for whatever the weather throws at you.  Although a good winter hat is better than nothing, the myth of heat escaping quickest through your head is false. The amount of skin exposed directly relates to body heat loss, not what area of skin is exposed. A scarf to keep your neck and chest warm is important when breathing in cold air, along with a warm winter coat. Keeping our core warm is the most important part, if your core temperature dips below 98.6, then your body stops sending blood to extremities to preserve heat, causing frostbite. Therefore, make sure you invest in a good insulating coat this season. Next, hands. Did you know mittens actually keep your hands warmer than gloves? Because body heat is shared between all fingers and not divided by glove material, this actually keeps your hands warmer. Sometimes it is hard to keep legs warm. Yes, there are ski pants but they aren’t very functional running around doing daily activities. Instead, think about wearing long johns or leggings under jeans or pants. Tall thick socks will keep your feet warm, again, not the toe socks, regular socks where your toes can share the body heat. And last but not least, boots. Lined boots like Uggs give your feet that extra layer of warmth that sneakers just cannot provide.

        Other tips to keep in mind, stay dry and keep hydrated! If you’re wet, the water evaporates making you colder. If you’re sweaty from the gym or just getting out of the shower make sure you change and dry your hair as soon as possible. Also, water is very good at retaining body heat; make sure to have a tall glass of water before treading out in the cold this winter. Stay safe and stay warm!

Lake Country Physical Therapy & Sportscare provides the best physical therapy in Canandaigua.  We offer treat all your Physical Therapy and Sportscare needs.  Call today to schedule your evaluation.