Historically, winter has been the most challenging season. While indoor warmth makes it easier to survive in the modern world, falling temperatures can still take a toll on your mind, body, and property. These 6 simple tips can help you navigate through the snow season until spring arrives so you can maintain your health and your home.
1. Create a safe path
Many urban jurisdictions require property owners to clear adjacent sidewalks for good reason. Seventeen thousand people die each year from slips and falls on snow and ice, and many more suffer injuries. Creating a safe path from your driveway to your front door could be the best way to maintain your health and your home this winter, especially considering the cost of healthcare in the United States.
Plus, doing your part avoids potential liability if someone else is injured on your property. Get out the shovel and de-icer and keep sidewalks, stairs and other walkways clear.
2. Stay dry, warm and cozy
Preparing your home for winter saves money on utilities and prevents pipes from freezing and bursting. If you leave the house, set the thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Consider leaving sinks dripping and opening cabinets that contain pipes to allow more air to reach the pipes, which you should also insulate, including around bends and elbows.
Also, use an incense stick to check for air leaks around windows and doors. If you see smoke coming out while stopped, it’s time to apply caulk or weather stripping. You can pick up both cheaply at any hardware store for a simple repair that can save you a lot of money on your heating bills.
If winter usually gets you down, consider embracing hygiene. This Danish term refers to a feeling of pleasant satisfaction: imagine a crackling fire, a hot cup of tea, a cat on your lap and a good novel. Make this your winter vibe as you surround yourself with cozy pajamas and plenty of hot cocoa. Bring back family games and movie night and transform snow into a game.
3. Keep your trip
Your car also needs extra care during the winter months. Take the following steps to prepare your trip for winter and stay safer on the roads:
- Check your tires and local ordinances. For example, some exceptionally snowy regions have chain mandates. Even if yours doesn’t, you should test your tire’s tread by inserting a coin with the Lincoln head facing down. If your head is completely covered, you’re fine; Otherwise, it’s time to change the tires.
- Perform a simple vehicle inspection and perform a complete tune-up with an oil change and check of spark plugs, filters, lines, hoses and belts.
- That same salt that protects you from slips and falls can ruin your car’s paint. After washing and waxing your vehicle, fix any chipped paint and apply a coat of linseed oil to prevent rust for up to a year.
4.Make fitness more accessible
Going to the gym in sub-zero temperatures (not to mention coats, boots, and hats) can make you choose the lazy route. However, you don’t need to curl up on the couch until spring. Home fitness is more accessible than ever.
Plus, moving around during the winter prevents colds and flu. It improves the ability of white blood cells to fight disease and can clear germs from the respiratory tract more quickly.
YouTube offers dozens of workouts for free. Exercise bands are inexpensive and slide under the couch for an easy strength training alternative to weights. Are you passionate about a particular discipline, such as yoga? Chances are there’s an app for that – explore what your phone can really do.
5. Discover seasonal healthy food deals
Eating seasonally helps you find bargains on food. Growers pass shipping costs on to you, so buying what’s grown locally saves you a few cents.
Your farmers market is usually the best place to get discounts, but consider exploring nearby rural areas. Some small farmers set up roadside stands and you might make a new friend while getting a deal.
You’ll also get better nutrition. Fruits and vegetables lose their nutrients as soon as the picker picks them, but getting them while they’re fresh means you’ll enjoy more of their goodness.
6. Get more Zzz’s
How did humans traditionally survive the harsh winter months before central heat? While they didn’t hibernate, they spent more time curled up under cozy furs. Your body temperature drops during sleep, but feeling cold can also make you feel more tired. Additionally, your body produces more cytokines during sleep that protect against seasonal illnesses.
Spring will return with renewed responsibilities. For now, honor this time by making up for the sleep deficit many modern humans have by sleeping more Zzzs.
Keep your health and your home this winter
Despite what TS Eliot says, January (not April) may be the cruelest month. However, humans have a long history of surviving harsh winters. The right tips will protect you, your home and your property while maintaining your health until the robins return.
Oscar Collins is the editor-in-chief of Modded, where he writes about health and fitness. Follow him on Twitter @TModded to receive regular updates on their work, and subscribe to Modded Minute to learn more.
