By
Halls Life
Posted 1 month ago
Mon 13 Jan, 2025 12:01 AM
You know that feeling when you’re about to head out and your mum nags you to bring a jacket? Well, now that you’re in halls, you have to be the one to nag yourself so you won’t catch a cold.
Trying to stay warm during the winter months can sometimes feel like a hassle— it’s one more thing to take care of on top of uni and living alone after all.
To make it feel less like a restrictive chore, Communications Lead at Gardens House Karan Kwok has put together her top five ways to keep warm and cozy without sacrificing enjoyment!
1. DIY Hot Chocolate Bombs 🍫
I remember these popping up on my for you page a year or so ago, and they’ve kept popping up ever since. They are definitely popular for a reason— not only is the final product delicious, the process of making them is also easy and fun. These novelty treats are guaranteed to warm you up and are highly customisable too, making them a perfect way to pass the time with friends.
2. Layering Outfits with Style 🧣
Dressing for the weather doesn’t have to be restrictive if you learn how to layer up. Thermal undershirts and tights are a must have in my closet. With these on, I can wear skirts and summer shirts on top without freezing to death. Investing in a quality winter coat that suits your everyday style can also help you feel more confident and protected. Scarves, hats, gloves, and leg warmers are also potential statement pieces to enhance your outfit. See layering clothes as an opportunity rather than a restriction!
3. Hot Pot Dinner 🥘
Who doesn’t love a good hot pot on a cold winter’s day? Instead of eating out, consider dropping by your nearby Asian grocery store with friends and host a hotpot dinner at your flat! Most Asian grocery stores have an array of pre-made soup bases and hotpot essentials to choose from. Not only is this much more budget friendly, it also allows for more flexibility on how you can enjoy your time together.
4. Host a fondue night 🍵
If hotpot is not your thing, a warm and gooey fondue might be! It does require a bit more prep work, but you should be able to find all ingredients needed in any UK grocery store. After the main course, consider replacing the cheese with melted chocolate and marshmallows for an equally decadent desert.
5. Hand Warmers / Warm Water Bottles
Where I’m from in Hong Kong, these are a winter must have! There are all sorts of gadgets dedicated to keeping your hands warm in East Asia— we have egg shaped sockets for putting the heat pack in so you don’t burn your hands, and even cute animal and food shaped electronic ones. A small hand warmer might not seem like much, but they make a huge difference when you’re waiting for the bus with freezing fingers. You can also consider sticking a heat pad between your layers for an extra boost of warmth! In the same vein, a warm water bottle is also a great alternative.
Hopefully, these few tips will insert a bit of joy into the mundane task of keeping warm. Stay cozy and healthy everyone! ❄️
If you are looking for more ways to beat the chilly weather in London, we've put together some useful tips and tricks to embrace the colder months.