7 Tips For Staying Warm When You're Venturing Out Into The Cold

Getting outside and spending time in nature is an invaluable part of self-care that, if you're like me, loses a bit of its appeal in the winter months. I'm not big on the cold, and I've definitely let it keep me from getting outside in the past. But not anymore! I live in Buffalo, New York, which is known for some pretty intense blizzards. Needless to say, over the years I've figured out a few key things to keep in mind when you're venturing out in the cold:

And while we're talking clothes, try to avoid cotton, as it'll soak up your sweat and leave you chilly. Dri-FIT base layers are best. Also, mittens are better than gloves at keeping your fingers warm!

Most specifically, keep an extra hat, pair of gloves, and pair of socks in your backpack. If any of those get wet, you'll want to swap them out. Your fingers, toes, and head are going to bear the brunt of the cold, so you always want to make sure they're covered.

With this breathing exercise, Hof says you'll be able to warm your body without an external heat source. "With practice, you will feel the heat flowing down from your neck to your whole body," he writes. "Everybody is different, but with practice, you will feel the heat coming from inside your body."

When you're outside in the cold, the best thing you can realistically do is keep moving, but—you don't want to move so vigorously you start sweating. Find a comfortable pace that keeps you warm but not too warm. Try to avoid stopping for prolonged stretches of time, and when you do stop, it's not a bad idea to wrap a blanket around yourself.

Honestly, this one doesn't need much explanation. They're so helpful. Hold them in your mittens, put them in your boots, tuck one under your sports bra. Similarly, having a thermos of your favorite warm beverage never hurts.

The common theme here is to stay dry. Cold and wet is not a good combination, and your excursion is likely to be cut short if you find yourself damp and cold. Try not to sweat to the best of your ability (remember those layers), change damp clothes when you can, and definitely don't sit on the ground; your pants will get wet.

Winter is nearly here, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on all the benefits of the great outdoors. Enjoying nature, even when it's cold, is possible when you come prepared.