The "Great Cold" is the last of the 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar.
A common saying goes, "The Great Cold happens every year, either during the third or fourth nine-day period after the Winter Solstice," emphasizing just how frigid this time of year can be.
In the depths of winter, where even water freezes and cold pierces to the skeleton, staying warm is not as simple as bundling up like a "dumpling." Several misconceptions about staying warm exist, and it's crucial to recognize and avoid them. Here’s how to protect yourself from the cold properly.
Myth 1: Drinking Strong Alcohol Keeps You Warm
Alcohol’s primary components are ethanol and water, neither of which generates heat. Instead, alcohol causes heat to dissipate from the body. As the body loses heat, a chilling sensation sets in once it reaches a critical point. Drinking strong alcohol to stay warm is not only ineffective but can lead to greater cold exposure.
Myth 2: Eating High-Calorie Foods Warms the Body
While some foods are rich in calories, they don't necessarily provide warmth. Foods like fried snacks and milk tea are calorie-dense but do little to combat the cold. Instead, opt for warming foods such as lamb, leeks, and shrimp. These ingredients help generate internal warmth and are more effective for winter nourishment.
6 Busted Cold Weather Myths ❄️ | Debunking Winter's Biggest Misconceptions!
Video by Facts' Eden
Myth 3: Wearing Tight Layers Retains More Heat
Air trapped between layers of clothing acts as an excellent insulator against cold air. However, when clothing is too tight, the layers compress, reducing the air trapped between them, which diminishes the insulation effect and can make one feel colder. Additionally, overly tight innerwear can restrict lymphatic and blood flow, worsening the feeling of coldness.
Myth 4: Covering the Head While Sleeping Helps Retain Warmth
On cold nights, some people like to sleep with their heads covered by blankets. However, this traps stale air, which is then repeatedly inhaled. Breathing this impure air can lead to dizziness and fatigue and fails to provide restful sleep. This habit does more harm than good when it comes to staying warm.
Myth 5: Keeping Doors and Windows Closed Prevents Cold
Sealing windows and doors during winter leads to a buildup of carbon dioxide in the room. Prolonged exposure to such environments while working or studying can result in oxygen deprivation, causing dizziness and discomfort. Even in winter, it's important to ventilate rooms daily. Open windows for about five minutes each time to ensure fresh air circulates.
Myth 6: Warming Cold Hands and Feet with Heaters Immediately
Prolonged exposure to the cold leaves hands and feet numb, but immediately using devices like heaters or fire stoves can cause skin damage. To safely warm cold extremities after being outdoors, gently rub them first to restore circulation gradually. Once they return to a normal temperature, place them near a heat source for further warming.
