NHS blogger Daniel gives his top tips on how to stay warm during the winter months. Keeping warm doesn’t need to cost us lots of money and here are some great money saving ways to stay nice and toasty.

Keep your home warm, efficiently and affordably:

• Set the scheduler on your central heating to match your routine. If you get up, or back in, at a regular time, having the heating switch on half an hour before could be all the heating you need.
• Check that your central heating is running smoothly and efficiently.
• To save money and energy, you could consider heating only those rooms that you’re using. Keep doors closed to keep the warmth in.   
• There are many ways to insulate your home. Many are cheap and easy, such as draft proofing.
• Electric heaters can be a way to top up or speed up the effect of central heating, but watch out: they can get expensive.

Dress warm, at home and when out:

• Wearing multiple layers provides both insulation and flexibility – you can always take the outer layer off.
• Don’t worry what you look like at home.  An extra layer in the house is cheaper than turning up the heating.
• Hats, gloves and scarves can keep your head and hands warm.  Charity shops are a good source of cheap clothes.  Clothing banks can provide free clothes to those in most need.
• Warm, dry feet are important.  Weather appropriate shoes and socks can make a big difference.  Why not carry spare socks, in case your first pair gets wet?
• Microwaveable and electronic hand warmers are also available.

Get moving at home, or get outdoors:

• Even a little movement in the home can make a difference to your warmth.
• Try to move around at least once an hour - walk around, or do some housework.
• Walking or running need not cost.  There are many other activities out there.  What do you enjoy?  Exercise is good for your mental health as well as keeping you warm.
• There are activities you can do in the home, for example, yoga or exercise classes; you can find these on YouTube.
• Take advantage of a sunny day to exercise outside.  Remember that it gets dark earlier in winter, so get out before it’s too late.
• Why not walk to a place you like to visit, ideally one that’s warm!
• A regular appointment can help with motivation.  There are many groups and classes to join. Or schedule a regular walk or run with a friend.

Eat well:

• Regular hot drinks can keep you warm.
• Hot, healthy, hearty winter foods can keep you warm, fit and can be a real pleasure.
• Cooking in bulk and freezing portions can provide easily accessible, hot, healthy meals and are handy when you aren’t in the mood to cook.
• Avoid excessive alcohol.  Alcohol can make you feel that you’re warmer, but will not actually warm you up.  This can stop you taking other measures to look after yourself, so can be dangerous, particularly at very low temperatures.