Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Staying Warm in Cold Weather - Snowy Owl's Tips

                    
When we awake to December's frosted windows, snow-dusted lawns, and our first impulse is to throw on a thick, cotton robe, it is certain that the following words will be uttered all day long: "It's so cold outside!"  Even though all of our senses process these low wintry temperatures, we should not allow them to dictate our lives.  There is a world of wonderful experiences to be had outside.  With certain physical and mental preparation, we can overcome the chilly elements.  Why not enjoy the beauties of nature in winter?  Why not comfortably walk around the block, run at the park, carry a plate of homemade chocolate chip cookies to your neighbor, play football with friends, or easily run errands around town during the several months of winter?  It is also enjoyable to observe the magic of the holidays with houses and lawns decorated in twinkling red and green lights, pine trees embellished in silver and gold, and myriad figures symbolizing the holidays such as Santa Clauses, reindeer, snowmen, elves, and fairies.  Don't let the cold keep you away from winter wonder.

According to two useful websites, here is a list of tips to help you conquer the cold:

1.  If there are any areas in your house where there is a draft, seal the areas tightly. You might have a draft under your door. You could put a blanket there.

2.  When you go outside, there are two important areas you need to make sure to cover well. That would be your head and your feet. Heat escapes from your head and feet. You could wear a hood or hat. You should wear socks and shoes that keep your feet warm.

3.  Another way to stay warm is to drink a hot drink. You could drink hot tea, hot chocolate, or soup. All of these would warm you up. Also, eating hot meals would do the trick.

4.  The last step is to cuddle. Body heat is a powerful thing. Just find the one you love and cuddle together.

  
5.  Wear three layers.  They must be a next-to-the-skin layer, middle layer, and outer layer.

The layer next to the skin must:

  • transport moisture away from your skin.
  • Should be smooth and comfortable
  • Polypropylene and polyester are best for comfort
  • Silk is another good fabric

The middle layer must:

  • Must trap pockets of air around you
  • Wool is excellent
  • Polyester fleece is lighter and insulates better

The outer layer must:

  • Must block wind, and sometimes water
  • Should allow moisture to escape
  • Nylon is excellent
  • Goretex is best, but very expensive
6.  Bring spares:
  • Socks                                                               
  • Hats                                                                 
  • Gloves
  • Boot liner

7.  Eat for warmth:

  • Eat multiple small meals
  • Eat higher-fat foods
  • Eat complex carbohydrates
  • Take trail snacks
  • Drink warm beverages
  • Drink plenty of water

8. Last but not least, think for warmth:                                                   

  • If you feel cold, get moving (walk, run, jump, etc.)
  • If you feel cold, put on more clothes quickly
  • If snow accumulates on you, brush it off
  • Eat often
  • Drink plenty of water
  • If you get wet, change clothes 
  • Sit by a hearth next to a fire
  • Hug someone you like or love (This tip is great.)
Source for tips 5-8: http://bcn.boulder.co.us/community/scouts/troop70/troop70dreswarm.htm#thinking

Happy Outdoor Journeys!

Your Devoted Blogger,
Monika Eva Hadaszy
                                     

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