Ten tips to staying toasty
As the weather gets colder, we might be tempted to crank up the heating and hibernate indoors. However, just because it is winter it doesn't mean we have to spend excessive amounts of money to keep warm. Here some ways you can keep warm but still stay within budget.
1. Layer on.
While people tend to layer their top half of their body, don’t forget your legs as well! Wear thermals or leggings under your pants/jeans for extra warmth. Always start with cotton as your first layer as it keeps the heat in. Layering is also effective as it mean you can take layers off indoors when you don’t feel as cold
2. Old school hot water bottle.
It might seem a little old school but filling up a hot water bottle and slipping it under the blanket in your bed will keep you toasty all night. These hot water bottles can usually be found at your local chemist or dollar store. Keep in mind, you should never use them in conjunction with an electric blanket.
3. Electric blankets.
There is not much in life that can compare to the feeling of a warm bed on a cold winter's night. Turning on your electric blanket a few minutes before hopping in can also help you stay toasty warm while in bed. Just remember to turn it off when not in use and always be mindful when using it.
4. Close the door!
It seems like common knowledge but people can forget to do it. Close all doors and windows that you’re not in or using to keep the warmth in. It is also advisable to draw all the curtains as well to further insulate the house from the cold.
5. Open the door!
If you’re using an oven during the wintertime, you can keep your kitchen warm by leaving your oven door open after you’ve done cooking and have turned it off.
6. DIY draft stopper.
Using a draft stopper to fill the gap under your door is also an effective way to keep your dwelling off. If you have a pool noodle and some cloth lying around you could even make your own. Cut the pool noodle in half, slip it into some cloth and there you have your own draft stopper!
7. DIY bubble wrap insulator.
If you have some sheets of bubble wrap lying around, you can use it as a cheap and fast insulator (if you don’t mind how it looks, that is). Cut the bubble wrap to the size of your windowpane, spray some water onto the window, and stick the bubble wrap onto the window bubble side down. The bubble wrap will stick to your window all winter and leave no stains when removed.
8. Get moving.
Exercising not only makes you feel better (exercising releases mood alleviating hormones called endorphins); it also allows better blood flow. There is an increase of blood flow to the skin hence, making your skin feel warmer. ANUSA and our friends PARSA and ANU Sport have free group exercise classes planned throughout the semester which students can attend. The ANU Counselling Centre also run a Get Up and Go Walking program where students get to go on walks with other students.
9. Fuel your system.
The cold weather can make you feel like not doing anything. However, it is important to make sure you’re full and hydrated. It is important to keep your blood sugar levels in check to allow you to have enough energy to sustain yourself in the cold weather. The Brian Kenyon Student Space at Union Court runs Student Bites every Tuesday during the teaching period, where students can get a bag of fresh produce for just $1.
10. Drink warm beverages.
Drinking warm beverages like tea or hot chocolate can increase your core body temperature and can make you feel warmer! The Brian Kenyon Student Space at Union Court has tea and coffee available to keep you warm while on campus when the semester begins.
Other helpful tips during winter:
- If you find your car frozen like a 2 ton ice cube in the morning, do not attempt to defrost your car with hot water. When in contact with ice, hot water on your windshield can cause your windshield to crack. Pour room temperature water instead when defrosting your windshield.
- Do not place anything combustible near heaters. While it might be tempting to warm your towels on a heater before you get into a shower, you could face a bigger problem than just cold towels if you do.
- Take care of yourself. Moisture yourself adequately as the harsh wind and chill can negatively affect your skin condition. Aim for moisturisers that contain ingredients such as shea butter, glycerine or petroleum jelly if you require extra moisture. Even though you might not feel like you need it, it is also important to use sun block in winter as well.
- Protect yourself from sickness. The ANU Clinic offers Influenza Vaccinations to students for just $20. Alongside getting the flu shot, it is also important to upkeep good hygiene by washing your hands with soap and warm water, and covering yourself when coughing or sneezing.