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| North of Toronto – LOTS of snow!! |
It has been freezing cold in Southern Ontario! This harsh weather is hard to take after awhile, so here are a few tips to survive and thrive in snowy conditions:
1. Layer up: In this weather, you cannot have too many layers! I don’t think I have left the house with less than three layers of clothing in the past few weeks and usually more. Start with a thin pair of silk long johns or tights. I also usually have a turtleneck on, as a base layer. Then add sweaters and leggings or jeans that can tuck into boots. I have the softest men’s cashmere turtleneck I found at Goodwill for $14 that I have been wearing nonstop this winter, as it is so cozy and warm. Always have some cushioned wool socks (I like hiking socks) on your feet (plus slippers in the house) and tall boots when you venture outside. Top off with a hat and a warm coat, preferably with a hood you can flip up for extra protection and something on your hands – mittens are the warmest choice!
2. Exercise: When you have on enough clothing to guard against the elements, you can then venture outside to get a little outdoor exercise, fresh air and the rare rays of sunshine when they appear. Doing this will elevate your mood! Embrace the weather and go skating or skiing. If you just can’t face the outdoors, due to extremely inclement weather, do what you can inside at home – squats, pushups and other calisthenics are easy to do anywhere. If you have a treadmill or other exercise equipment, hop on there and get your heart pumping. Do some stretching or follow some exercise videos found online. If you belong to a gym or other exercise studio, make sure to make appointments to get there whenever you can as well. As a last resort, if you cannot navigate the sidewalks due to snow and ice, go to the biggest mall you can find and walk. Bring along your portable device and listen to something interesting, music or a book on tape you can download from the library. Just don’t be distracted and actually go into the stores or you will won’t get your heart pumping and will end up spending more money you might have intended. If you have access to an exercise class held in a heated room, that would be a bonus, I just got back from a “hot stretch” class that was heavenly. I feel so much more relaxed!
3. Cocoon: Sit by the fire or under a comforter with a steamy cup of fragrant tea and a good book – surrender to winter and just enjoy being warm and comfortable inside. This is my personal favourite way to cope. Travel brochures to exotic, warm locations are also kind of fun to peruse when it is frightful outside. Browse healthy cookbooks and make some delicious, nutritious foods! Take a hot bath and watch a movie with popcorn. Saunas and steam rooms are also really awesome.
5. Get away if you can: This is even better if planned well in advance, since you can book things at the best price and have something to look for all winter long. Knowing that you are going to be able to escape winter during March break with your family can be the lifeline you keep in mind whenever you feel like you just can’t take it any more!
6. For commuting, always have on hand: your cell phone, a snow brush/scraper, a cover for your windshield (or park in a garage), a hot beverage and snacks just in case you have problems, touchscreen gloves are handy, a charging cable to plug into your cigarette lighter for your phone and good tires! Drive carefully, avoid storms and rush hour! Take transit if you can and avoid the stress of driving yourself.
If you live in a sunny climate, be grateful! We look forward to joining you and stripping off the extra clothing in a few months.