Preparing for Winter (yes, we said it)

Winter is technically still a little way off, but now that summer is saying its last goodbye, we’ll soon start to notice the weather beginning to cool, the nights drawing in, and you might have already begun to see the leaves changing colour and falling from the trees. You might be looking forward to cooler weather and the exciting holidays and events that come with it. Many of us are. But, the best way to enjoy winter is to prepare for it.

We prepare for summer by making some changes to our garden, taking our summer clothes out of storage, shopping for some new outfits, stocking up on sunscreen and perhaps trying to lose a little weight or tone up before stripping off on the beach. Taking the time to prepare for winter can mean that you are less likely to become ill, your home will be warm and comfortable, you’ll be safe when you are out and about, and your energy bills won’t grow out of control. Here’s a look at some of the things that you can do to prepare for winter.

 

Prepare Your Home

Your home might be your first concern as cold weather approaches. There’s nothing worse than sitting in a cold house, except perhaps opening your energy bill after a particularly cold snap. So, make some changes now to protect your home so that it can keep you warm, no matter what. 

First, check your window seals. They can quickly become worn and start letting cold air in. Run your fingers around them, feeling for draught, and get repairs where needed. 

Then, arrange for a boiler service to ensure you will be with heat and hot water through the autumn and winter. You might also want to bleed your radiators and run them for an hour to get them moving again. 

 

Prepare Your Car

You might also want to prepare your car for colder weather. Snow tires might be helpful if you live in an area that often gets a very harsh climate. You should add an emergency bag in case your break down in the cold. It’s also the perfect time for a full car detailing to help you to keep your vehicle clean and tidy even when it’s muddy and wet outside. If you haven’t had one for a while, you should also book a complete service so that you know your car is topped up and in good condition. 

 

Prepare Yourself

Photo Credit Jill Wellington

 

Your body and mind could also use some cold weather preparation. Many of us struggle with coughs and colds, which are perfectly normal, and seasonal depression caused by bad weather, cold, dark days and a lack of vitamin D. Prepare, and you’ve got a better chance of fighting these off. Start taking a vitamin C supplement now, and make sure you are eating well, with plenty of vitamins and minerals and exercising regularly. Try to get outside as often as you can, wrapping up warm when it’s cold. 

 

Then, take care of your mental health. Practice self-care, treating yourself and making time to things that you love and that make you happy. Spend time with friends and family, and find something that soothes and relaxes you.

 

 

markmunroe
Mark Munroe is the Creator and EIC of ADDICTED. He's ADDICTED to great travel, amazing food, better grooming & probably a whole lot more!
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