The holidays are the perfect time of year to gather with friends and family but for most of the country, that means stepping out into the cold, icy air. It is winter after all and temperatures have dropped. Sure, we can cozy up next to the fireplace or wear lots of layers but this year, we’re thinking outside the box.  Here are five nontraditional ways to warm up the holidays!

1. Break a sweat! Get outside and get active. Your health is just as important in the winter as it is during bikini season. Whether you go for a run, a walk around the block, ice skating, snowboarding or even caroling, staying active will keep you warm and healthy!

2. Sip on something warm! A nice cup of Hot Koko with whip cream on top is a definite must-have while braving the cold. If you want to spice it up a bit, try a Gingerbread Latte or Peppermint Mocha and caffeinate while you wrap presents.

3. Take a dip! Find a natural hot springs near you and soak in the rejuvenating mineral water. The thermal baths are great for circulation and muscle relaxation. Washing away the stress of the holidays at a healing hot spring will warm both the body and soul.

4. Warm someone’s heart. Give the gift of warmth by donating your gently used coats and other winter apparel to a local organization. Find a coat drive near you by visiting onewarmcoat.org or search for other area drop off sites such as Burlington Coat Factory and the Salvation Army.

5. Bask in the lights. It may not be the sun but you can pretend by surrounding yourself with thousands of tiny twinkling lights. Many cities get in the spirit and put on Christmas and holiday displays around town. Take a stroll through the city to see the lights or stay warm and toasty in the car, while driving slowly through festively lit neighborhoods.

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