Are you wintering all wrong? How to stay happy when it’s cold

As temperatures in the UK plummet below zero and an amber cold health alert is issued, heated debates over the temperature dial in homes and offices across the nation ramp up. James Mercer, a professor at UiT, Norway’s Arctic University, says the Norwegian expression for the people who consistently complain about the cold is “freezer sticks”. open image in gallery Keep it cosy: warm tea and fluffy socks can help you withstand the winter cold But whether you run hot or cold, all of us can learn the art of “wintering well” from Scandinavians who know a thing or two about good physical and mental health over the chilly, dark months. Here are six ways you can do winter well open image in gallery Soft furnishings and relaxing areas are a great way to embrace ‘cold living’ Sit soft A giant squashy sofa, preferably velvet, you can visibly sink into it. open image in gallery Walks in nature, or just watching nature from the warm inside can encourage a positive winter mindset Live soft Being kind to yourself and others and taking time to rest and enjoy the simple gentle things in life that don’t cost anything, but make you feel good – chatting to friends, lighting a fire, having an up-to-your-neck bubble bath, making soup or meditating – are all great ways of living softly.