7 Ways To Keep Toasty This Winter

Are you a fan of winter? Surveys consistently show that given a chance, most people would skip the season altogether.

But let’s face it, the Antipodean season is nowhere near as brisk as those experienced by our European counterparts (after all, you can still surf and swim in the ocean for the entire year in at least some parts of the country, right? Ahhh, bliss).

To get you in the mood, here are 7 hacks to keep you snug through the wintry months. And if all else fails, you can always try the Bear Grylls method of cuddling up with a sheep or peeing into a zip lock bag as an impromptu hot water bottle!

#1.-  Tech gadgets:

Forget about hot water bottles and thermal undies. There is a whole new intriguing world of tech-inspired products out there to beat the winter blues. From electrically heated vests and insulated foot warmers to touch screen gloves and travel mugs that can be set to hold a certain temperature, the sky’s the limit. Our personal fave: the Bluetooth beanie (hook up to your playlist and keep your head warm at the same time).

#2.- Bone broths:

Bone broths have been all the rage for some time now – and with good reason. This ancient tradition has been revived by everyone from the health-conscious to high-profile influencers and those who follow the paleo and keto diets. The bottom line is that simmering up cartilage rich bones over many hours boosts nutrition, flavour and body heat! That’s not all. Bone broth is said to be the foundation of good gut and digestive health.

#3.- Stay active:

While it’s tempting to stay indoors glued to the sports channel, get your body moving. Work a regular fitness routine into your day or take up a new activity. Why not be adventurous with your partner and try tango classes – or go to yoga (at the very least, all the women there will be impressed). It’s also the perfect time to indulge in the classic and highly intoxicating winter sports of skiing and snowboarding. Head to Thredbo, Perisher or another one of Australia’s many awesome resorts.

#4.- Don Sox (of course!):

Keeping your feet warm is essential in winter to keep your blood circulating. Our socks are a must-have winter item to help you stay cosy in every way. Our colourful range is 100% guaranteed to brighten up your day, especially when paired with blacks, blues and greys – and we do have more classic colours as well.

#5.-  Curl up and read a book:

While it may seem that social media and Netflix are taking over the world, curling up in bed to read an honest-to-goodness hard copy book still remains one of life’s greatest pleasures. Not only that, reading reduces stress and helps improve memory and concentration. In case you didn’t know, the country that reads the most is India! They read at 10 hours and 42 minutes per person per week.

 #6.- Take care of your mental hygiene:

Seasonal Affective Disorder is very real. Walk in the middle of the day to get a dose of vitamin D, enjoy the sun or use other forms of light therapy. Catch up with friends and family, and remember there is always support out there if you need it. There are great organisations around that deal with mental health. On the subject of great organisations, Don Sox has just donated 10% of its online sales from June to the Black Dog Institute, which does fantastic work treating and preventing issues like depression and anxiety.

#7.- Get and give hugs:

Now, more than ever, it’s important to keep hugging those you love – kids, partners, pets…it’s simply one of the toastiest things to do in winter. In the words of the often grumpy but legendary tennis player John McEnroe: “The good part of having six kids is, there is always one who wants to hug you and say, ‘Daddy, I love you.” Aww…shucks.