Keeping Warm This Winter

Keeping Warm This Winter: 5 Simple Tips That Could Save Your Life

Let’s be honest British winters aren’t exactly charming. The skies are grey, the radiators groan, and no matter how many jumpers you pile on, there’s always that one room in the house that feels like a walk-in freezer.

But here’s the thing: being cold isn’t just uncomfortable it can actually be dangerous. Especially if you’re older, have existing health conditions, or live in a home that’s difficult to heat.

Most people don’t realise that cold weather can seriously affect your health. When your body’s exposed to the cold, even for a short time, your blood pressure can rise. That extra strain on your heart increases your risk of a heart attack or stroke. And if you’re cold for a longer period, your immune system can take a hit too leaving you more vulnerable to infections and illness.

Sounds dramatic, but the good news is there’s a lot you can do to keep safe and warm. So, whether you’re trying to stay toasty yourself or looking out for someone else this winter, here are five practical tips that really make a difference.

1. Keep Moving Even a Little Helps

We’re not saying you need to start running laps around the garden (although fair play if you do). But gentle movement throughout the day can really help your circulation and that keeps you warmer.

If you can get up and walk around every hour or so, brilliant. Spread out little tasks through the day so you’re not sitting still for long stretches. And if moving around is tricky, chair-based exercises are just as effective. Wiggle your toes, roll your ankles, stretch your arms and legs anything that gets the blood flowing is a win.

Not only does it warm you up, but it also gives your energy levels a nice little boost. Win-win.

2. Wrap Up Warm And Don’t Forget Bedtime

Layers are your best friend in winter. Wearing several thin layers traps heat better than one chunky jumper, and you can add or remove bits depending on how warm you're feeling. Soft, thermal underwear is great under clothes and no one has to know you're rocking long johns under your jeans.

Around the house, a shawl or blanket draped over your shoulders adds instant warmth without having to crank the heating up. And when it comes to bedtime, don't be shy wear warm pyjamas, thick bed socks, and even a hat if the room’s especially cold. Yes, you might look like a Victorian chimney sweep, but you'll be much warmer for it.

3. Heat the Room Not the Whole House

Keeping your entire home warm can be pricey, but focusing on heating the rooms you use most is a smart move. Try to keep your living room or main area at around 21°C during the day, and your bedroom a bit cooler at night but not cold.

Keep internal doors closed to stop heat escaping, and don’t leave windows open unless you really need to especially when it’s freezing outside. If you’ve got draughts coming in, simple solutions like draught excluders or even a rolled-up towel at the bottom of the door can make a big difference.

If you’re worried about the cost of heating, see what help is available in your area. Some councils and charities offer winter fuel support, and there may be grants or schemes you can access.

4. Eat and Drink to Stay Warm

Here’s a lovely excuse to have an extra cuppa: hot food and drinks really do help your body stay warm.

Try to have at least one hot meal a day even a bowl of soup counts. Meals with a good mix of carbs, protein and veg will help keep your energy up. And yes, you should be eating a bit more in the winter your body burns more energy trying to stay warm.

Hot drinks throughout the day will keep you cosy, and a warm drink before bed can help you sleep better too. Flasks are great for keeping drinks hot so you don’t have to keep popping to the kitchen. Keep one by your chair, or even on the bedside table for that pre-sleep brew.

And don’t forget your fruit and veg cold weather doesn’t mean skipping your 5 a day. Your immune system still needs all the support it can get.

5. Look Out for Others And Yourself

This time of year can be tough not just physically, but emotionally too. If you’ve got older neighbours, friends or family members, a quick call or visit can make a real difference. Check they’re warm enough, eating well, and know about any help that’s available locally.

And don’t forget to look after yourself, too. Winter has a way of sneaking up on people one minute you’re just a bit chilly, the next you’ve not moved for hours and you’re shivering in your chair.

Set reminders if you need to for movement, meals, or even just to check the room temperature. Keeping warm is one of those things that seems obvious, but it’s easy to neglect when life gets busy.