Thermostat Cat Says “Put on a swetter” (How to keep warm, yet green, this winter)

In many areas of the country, it’s still a very chilly winter out there. What to do to keep heating bills low, keeping your eco resolutions and yet staying warm? Here are some common sense ways to stay toasty without kicking up your heating use (and bill) as winter slinks along.

1. Have a hot pack on hand. My favorite is this organic cotton neck pillow filled with cherry stones I warm up and put over my shoulders during the day or under the covers at night. (It smells subtly of cherries and can be hand washed to boot.) DIY version: I used to make my own out of a (new) organic cotton sock filled with uncooked rice.
2. DIY a drafty door stopper. Not Martha posted these instructions a few years ago for a simple pillow to slide under old doors. No more cold drafts sneaking in.
3. Drink tea. Hot tea is my beverage of choice no matter the season, but in cooler months it’s indispensable for keeping warm while working indoors. My staples? Chamomile with fresh ginger, white tea (also good for hydrating skin) and the amazingly tasty herbal coffee substitute made from dandelion and chicory roots, Dandy Blend.
4. Keep moving. Stretch breaks are good for all kinds of reasons, including the one that gave them their other name, “warming up.” A brief walk outside also does the trick.
5. Bundle. Scarves, wrist warmers, vests. Dressing for the outdoors in will seal the deal.
6. Invest in insulation. While it might sound pricey right now, having good insulation in your home will cut down your bills in the long run and save energy too. Mr Roof can do this for you in a day and then you’re set for the cold weather.

If you’re still feeling frosty, there’s always cuddling. Or, as this piece from Shareable recommends, build a fort!