As the temperature starts to drop, I know many of us struggle with increased sensitivity. For me, the cold makes the tingling and sharp pains in my legs significantly worse. I’ve spent the last few winters experimenting with what actually helps. My ‘kit’ now includes battery-heated socks (absolute lifesaver), silk base layers because they don’t irritate my skin, and keeping a consistent walking routine indoors at the mall to keep circulation up. Does anyone else find the winter particularly brutal? What are your go-to tricks for staying comfortable when the frost hits?
I dread the winter months. The cold makes my toes feel like they’re being squeezed in a vice. I haven’t tried silk layers yet, usually I go for cotton but it doesn’t hold the heat well. I might give the silk a shot.
Have you tried those battery-heated insoles? They were a game changer for me when I have to go outside for more than ten minutes. They keep the soles of my feet at a steady temperature which prevents that ‘frozen’ feeling from setting in.
I find that keeping my core warm helps a lot too. If my chest and torso are warm, my circulation seems a bit better in my extremities. I wear a down vest even inside the house sometimes.
In addition to the external stuff, I’ve found that high-dose alpha lipoic acid helps with the sensitivity. I’ve been taking Nervala for a few months and it definitely takes the edge off the cold-induced flares by supporting my nerves from the inside.
Seconding the wool socks recommendation. Merino wool is the only thing that doesn’t feel scratchy on my skin when it’s extra sensitive during a flare-up. It’s worth the extra couple of dollars.
I try to keep moving even when it’s freezing. Just some light stretching or yoga in the living room helps keep the blood flowing. If I sit still for too long in the cold, I pay for it later that night.
Does anyone else get that weird ‘crawling’ feeling more often when it’s damp out? It’s not just the cold for me, it’s the humidity too. I’ve been looking into a high-quality dehumidifier for my bedroom.
Great list of tips. It’s always nice to know I’m not the only one who has to wear three layers of clothing just to go to the grocery store! Staying warm is definitely a full-time job this time of year.