In Franklin County, it seems, we spend most of our time either trying to stay warm or trying to cool off. It does not feel like there is a lot of time in between. And in the wintertime, whether it be the shortened daylight hours, the freezing weather, or a succession of them both — it’s easy to become depressed inside this time of year as the temperatures outside get dangerously cold. To combat the cold and a severe case of cabin fever, we at Grove City Heating and Air composed the following pointers to help you stay warm AND happy this winter.
LAYER UP, LAYER DOWN
In the winter, it’s imperative to layer up. Putting on these extra layers is an excellent way to stay warm, especially if you have to be outdoors for any length of time. If you put on too many layers, or if you get busy out there and become warm, you can peel back some layers as needed. Also, wear thermals, add extra pairs of socks. Don’t forget scarves and gloves. Handwarmers, no pun intended, are handy too. If you feel like all these layers make you look big, keep in mind a lot of retailers make weather gear that is slim enough to hide under work clothing.
‘TIS THE SEASON
Instead of shying away inside this winter, spice up your life. Go sledding. Build a snowman. Go ice skating. Build a snow fort with the kids. Whatever fun you can think up, embracing the occasion to enjoy the most amazing things about this time of year will boost your spirits. When you embrace the season instead of dreading it, your positive feelings will begin replacing your melancholy ones — particularly when it has to do with the weather. Perspective is everything — especially in the snow. So when your attention starts to center around your cold fingers or freezing toes, refocus on the bright side of things. For instance, you have a warm home waiting for you with excellent HVAC! Winter won’t persist forever. Enjoying some time outside is good for your health.
EAT RIGHT
Eating wholesome food in the winter is vital to defending yourself against winter sickness. Not only that, but good eating practices will also speed up your metabolism? This, in turn, boosts body temperatures. Nevertheless, if your resolution for the New Year is to drop a little extra weight, don’t fret — you can always pass on the excess fat and attempt to eat warmer foods that are nutrient-dense. For healthy drinks, enjoy some coffee or tea. Try spicy foods and soups. Hot chocolate is a seasonal preference.
THE RIGHT TEMPERATURE
Fixing your thermostat at the same temperature night and day will help stop your pipes from freezing and breaking. While it might be tempting to try so save a little on your heating bill, you will be protecting your budget from costly repairs. Obtaining a programmable thermostat is an excellent idea for this HVAC issue. If you don’t get one, remember if you are going to be away from home for an extended length of time, don’t decrease the temp below 55 degrees.
GET THAT BLOOD FLOWING!
This time of year, we find all sorts of justifications to avoid going to the gym. Poor weather magnifies those excuses. Nevertheless, we say take complete advantage of those brighter, brisk days, even if it’s just taking a walk. You’ll find some daily chores, like shoveling the snow, can help keep you decent condition. Just make sure you don’t overdo it. If going to the gym is out of the question, devise a routine that you can do at home. It’s a great way to move your muscles and bones and enhance blood flow without leaving the house. This will help keep you warmer and content.
FIND A PURPOSE
Whether you get involved in an extracurricular at school, a community-based project or something to do with your church, being involved with others instills a feeling of personal purpose. This sort of personal engagement with others in something bigger than oneself is a basic value of life. When you find a purpose in your life, the cold weather becomes a faraway minor obstacle.
DIET, SLEEP, DETOX
What’s better than beating a cold or the flu? Not getting one in the first place! Some folks attribute their strong immune systems to consuming lots of water, eating healthy, and regularly getting a good night’s sleep. In addition to that, keeping your body free of toxins will do wonders. Everyone is responsible for their own cleansing methods. Foods that are high in fiber, nutrient-rich, and low on unhealthy fats will go a long way in keeping your system clear. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains high in fiber are ideal.
In all this, we want to stress that each person is responsible for their own joy, just as well as each person should keep themself warm and safe this winter. Just remember, the new year, another spring, and then summer is not far away. None of us would truly enjoy the beauty of those times without embracing the frigid days ahead. For more information, or for a tune-up, call Grove City Heating & Air today at 614-490-7540 or schedule an appointment online now at www.grovecityheatingandair.com/schedule-now/.
