We all struggle to keep warm at one point or another during the fast approaching chilly winter days (and nights), but did you know that you can keep warm by simply improving your circulation?

Circulation has a significant impact on how warm we feel. And poor circulation can mean fingers and toes start to feel numb or tingly.

What Causes Poor Circulation

How blood circulates throughout your body can be affected by a wide variety of conditions, including blocked or damaged arteries, diabetes, high cholesterol, and stress.

If you’re anything like me when the mercury falls, or those sharp winds blow, the only thing you want to do is snuggle under a blanket with a dog and wait for summer.

And as tempting as that may be, a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to poor circulation along with a host of other damaging health issues, such as weight gain, increased blood sugar levels, and even depression.

So with spring still a more than a weeks away, here are four ways to stay warm this winter, improve your circulation, and feel good while you do it.

Say Good Morning with Ginger Tea

Skip the cup of coffee and reach for a steaming cup of ginger tea for all-day warmth. Simmer a 1-inch piece of peeled ginger root in a cup of water for about five minutes. Add honey for a sweeter start to your day. Hot ginger tea is a natural way to warm up the body. It will also calm any tummy issues you may have in the morning, including symptoms of morning sickness.

Improve Circulation With Yoga

Yoga. Improving circulation is another benefit of participating in a regular yoga class. Look for free in-person classes at community centers or even some library locations, or head over to Youtube and check out my favorite yogini, Yoga With Adriene

Go Swimming

While you may be thinking that swimming is just for summer, going for a heated swim is the perfect winter activity. The warm water in the pool naturally helps to improve circulation, increase your body temperature, and relax tight muscles. A quick thirty-minute swim twice a week will have you feeling warm all winter long. And enjoy the bonus that improved circulation might help you avoid the flu!

Stay Warm This Winter By Going For a Spin

If you hate to pack your bike away for winter, spinning might be just what you’re looking for. Riding stationary bicycles indoors, also called spinning, is an ideal way to do what you enjoy despite the snow and ice outside. Pop on a YouTube video or watch the latest Broadway show on demand, and spin your way warm this winter

Exercise is one of the simplest things we can do for improved circulation. And with a few weeks still on the calendar, it’s a perfect time to get moving.