Heat you and not the home
Save energy and stay warm with these practical tips!
Hot water bottles
This great tool is my number one tip for keeping warm. They are so portable and can be used anywhere – under your feet when home working, on your lap whilst reading or watching TV and of course in bed. You can also buy long thin water bottles which you can drape around your neck – perfect if you need to go shopping or catch the bus/train somewhere.
Other portable heat providers include:
USB gloves
Heated insoles
Electric heat pad
Electric footwarmer
Blankets
Always a good staple to have around. If you don’t have any check out your local charity shop. If you’re crafty you could knit one!
Move around
A little bit of gentle exercise will help you keep warm; get up once an hour, climb the stairs or walk around your home and you’ll notice the benefit.
Layer your clothes
Base layer which sits against your skin will lock in heat and “wick away” sweat. Avoid cotton if possible as it traps moisture and will cool you down over time.
Midlayer – such as a t-shirt will help trap the warmth your baselayer hasn’t managed to keep in.
Outerlayer – if you’re indoors a fleece would work well. If outdoors, a waterproof padded jacket is just the ticket.
Leggings – when it’s really cold wearing a pair of leggings under your trousers will help keep you warm.
Keep your feet warm
I always say that if my feet are cold then so will the rest of me!
Slippers: particularly ones that are like boots will keep your feel warm and snug.
Socks: if your feet feel cold later in the day, then it could be they’ve absorbed sweat. Swap them for a fresh pair and your feet should warm up again.
Put your feet up: the floor is the coldest part of the home so elevating your feet on a stool, cushion or beanbag will help them stay a little bit warmer.
Use a sleeping bag when sitting: slip your bottom half in and you’ll notice the difference. Add a hot water bottle and you’ll be warm with no draughts!
Food to keep you warm
The NHS says eating regularly will help keep you warm and says you should have one hot meal a day. It also recommends drinking hot drinks regularly.
Quick and easy ways to have a hot meal include:
- Porridge for breakfast
- Soups for lunch (use veg that you might be considering throwing away to make a soup base that you can add to)
- Stews for main meals
Struggling to afford food?
Speak to your local council to see if you are eligible for the Household Support Fund. You don’t need to be on benefits to receive this.
Your local independent foodbanks may also be able to assist you:
muswellhill.foodbank.org.uk
020 8883 0434
tottenham.foodbank.org.uk
020 8493 0050