When it comes to harsh winters, it's the details that take you from surviving the cold to thriving in it. Every Canadian knows the essentials to winter - down jackets, thermal underwear and winter tires among them - but its easy to forget the little extras. Here are a few additional tidbits for how to survive the coldest months of the year:
Invest in heated everything
Anyone who owns an electric blanket will tell you it's hard to go back to living without one. Even the act of showering is better with a towel warmer. If you want something unique, hunt for a kotatsu - a Japanese invention that combines a low table, blanket and heater. Also, don't forget a heated windshield scraper. The extra ice-busting power makes all the difference when you're running late.
Nothing feels better than a cozy electric blanket.
Find a nourishing lip balm
Canadian Family suggested a tiny essential that everyone needs but few people think about. A favorite lip balm is one of those little touches that makes life so much better. You never have to worry about showing up to work - or worse, a date - with dry, flaky lips. Look for balms with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or jojoba oil. Keep a few scattered throughout - one in your car, one in the bathroom and one in your work bag - in case you need a backup.
Give yourself extra time
Things move a lot slower in winter. Unpredictable weather can bring traffic to a standstill, and even getting dressed takes longer than usual. Take note and give yourself a few minutes of wiggle room. On that note, Travel and Escape recommended planning your day as efficiently as possible. Stop by the gym on your way home from work so you don't have to make an extra trip, and arrange outings that are close to home.
Indulge in an outdoor activity
Getting active in cold weather sounds like the last thing you'd like to do, but movement is great for releasing endorphins. Go sledding in your backyard or ice skating on a nearby lake. Even a quick jog around the neighborhood can be fun - just make sure you're geared up for safety. As long as you layer up properly - with a moisture-wicking base layer, heat-trapping midlayer and element-repelling outer layer - the physical activity will increase your body temperature and you won't even feel the cold.