There is something about the winter that makes me want to write even more. Maybe it’s because it’s an indoor activity that keeps me out of the cold weather or because it’s a great excuse to make my workspace extra cozy for writing time—whatever the reason the winter season is a great time to focus on your writing.
There is something to beware of when writing in the winter: sitting still for long periods of time makes it harder to keep your body warm. So, you may notice you feel colder at your desk than you typically do when moving about your home.
Here are our top 10 tips to stay warm as you write this winter.
1. Wear fingerless gloves.
If your hands feel like ice, try wearing fingerless gloves. These gloves keep your hands warm but still give you a full range of motion for typing because your fingers will be exposed.
2. Keep a blanket nearby.
A blanket is great to wrap around your shoulders or drape over your legs, depending on which part of your body feels cold on a certain day.
3. Dress in layers.
Use layers to your advantage. Put a sweatshirt on over a long-sleeve shirt. If you get hot, you can pull off your sweatshirt, and when you start to feel cool again you can put it back on.
4. Set a timer to remind you to move around.
Moving your body will help warm you back up. If you find yourself sitting for too long and your body feels cold, set a timer to remind you to get up and walk around for a few minutes. Getting your blood flowing again will help circulate blood to your arms and legs, which warms your hands and feet again, too.
5. Invest in a heated throw.
Having a heated throw nearby is a game-changer. You can set how warm you want the throw to be, which means you can fully control it to your comfort level.
6. Keep a warm beverage on your desk.
Having hot tea, coffee, cider or hot chocolate on your desk allows a quick sip to help warm you up.
7. Utilize a heating pad.
Keep a heating pad in your chair to keep you warm and it’ll also help keep your muscles from tightening up too much. You could also place the heating pad under your feet to keep them extra warm.
8. Wear slippers or warm socks.
If your feet get cold, make sure to wear some slippers or warm socks. Warm feet will keep your whole body warm.
9. Position your writing spot in front of a sunny window.
If the sun is out, set your writing spot in front of a window that gets plenty of sunlight. Not only does this provide some light therapy to help you avoid seasonal affective disorder (SAD), but it can also help keep you warm.
10. Be careful with space heaters.
If you’re going to use a space heater in your home, make sure to follow all safety instructions and be extra careful about where you place it, and always turn it off when you leave the room.
Looking for more winter writing inspiration? Read Writing Through the Winter Blues.
