One of the things I love to do for myself in the winter is experience warm.  I grew up in Miami, Florida, and I think I'm still getting used to the colder weather in Seattle, even after three decades of living here.

So I like to keep warm.  It's also very relaxing and soothing to me, and one the best ways to relieve the stress that gets stored in tense muscles.

There are any number of ways to find relaxing warmth in winter:

• Soak in a hot tub or take a sauna
• Use guided imagery to visualize warmth moving through your body
• Curl up with a blanket in front of the woodstove or fireplace
• Eat nutritious snacks during the day to stimulate your metabolism
• Take a relaxing hot bath when you have some time alone
• Apply a heat pack to sore muscles
• Take a hot shower after vigorous exercise
• Drink plenty of hot tea (preferably without much caffeine)
• Take a tropical vacation (or just fantasize about it)
• and many more

One of my favorite ways to get warmth is to put a microwavable heat pack on my neck and shoulders at the end of the work day, or to heat one just before bedtime and take to it bed with me. The warmth is very relaxing and helps me get to sleep sooner.

Of course, another wonderful way to get "warmth" in the winter is to surround yourself with good friends and healthy family and to enjoy each other's company and good will. The inner glow that comes from satisfying relationships really does warm you up.

Best wishes for plenty of relaxing warmth this winter season.