How to keep warm in a garden office/wfh

Ok it’s cold. It’s December. We’ve officially reached minus figures, you can see your breath and it’s fine to admit you feel chilly. Working from home has lots of benefits but heating your office (and paying for it) isn’t one of them. We all know this winter is going to feel much cooler than usual – as we test our willpower and wallets to stay away from the thermostat. I repeat – stay away from the thermostat!

But it’s not all doom and gloom. I’ve got a few little tips on what keeps me cosy in my Copy Cabin. And I’ve not had to reach for the hip flask just yet!

Here’s 11 ways to keep you warm this winter

1. Legwarmers: Think Fame, think Flashdance and think legwarmers. If they’re good enough for Kevin Bacon, they’re good enough for me. And they’ll keep your pins toasty when you’re sitting or standing at your desk. Whether woolly or fleecy-lined you can pick a pair up cheaply…or if you’ve got the time and inclination (Tom Daley’s new book shows you all the basics of knitting) knit a pair for yourself.
2. Wrist warmers: Cover your wrists and it’s amazing how much warmer you feel. There’s lots of brands in the marketplace but I have a pair from TurtleDoves that are three years old and still going strong. Recycled cashmere made from an old jumper – so they’re good for the environment too.
3. Oodie: This one comes with a warning – YOU’LL NEVER WANT TO TAKE IT OFF. Which can cause a problem when you need to jump on a Zoom call and have to take it off so you don’t look like you’re wearing avocado-themed loungewear. Honestly this is a game changer and there’s no going back. Thankfully they have regular bogoff offers so you can have a spare for when one is in the wash. We hardly needed our heating on in the evenings last year due to wearing these…so what you spend investing in one, you potentially save on your energy bill.
4. Hand and feet warmers: Instant heat with these little beauties. They last approx. 45 mins for the handwarmers (ideal if you just need to warm your digits up for your keyboard) and the feet ones last up to 8 hours. I sometimes pop them in my slippers to keep my toes toasty. And the really good news is the handwarmers are reusable. Just boil them in a pan for 8 mins and they’re as good as new (and not too pricey, you can pick them up for a couple of quid).
5. Poncho: Channel your inner gaucho and invest in a poncho. Mine is more of a blanket but it’s trapped the warmth in my office for many a winter. I love it so much I’ve named it Fred. And if you can’t bear to take it off, they double up as great scarves/shawls over a jacket when you’re out and about.
6. Hot water bottles: We’re living in spoilt times now. Where hot water bottles come in all shapes and sizes. Full length ones that wrap round your shoulders and even ones you can wear like a belt. And you can’t beat the warmth from one…it’s also a good excuse to put the kettle on and make yourself a cuppa…which leads me onto my next point.
7. Thermos cup/flask: Your cupboards are probably full of them already. You use them in the car, when you’re out and about and they’re perfect for the office (or branded gifts for your clients). Keep your drinks warm for hours and pretend you’ve gone camping or have climbed up a beautiful mountain while you sip from your desk.
8. Foot warmers: A midlife crisis doesn’t have to mean a sports car or inked sleeve. Mine was definitely a foot warmer. And I have no shame in admitting that. Plug it in, choose your temperature and it’ll keep your feet warm for around 90 mins…you’ll turn it off before then though it’s super snug.
9. Sleeping bag: And talking of snug, Roald Dahl was well-known for writing wrapped up in a sleeping bag…well from the waist down anyway. I’ve yet to try it myself but I’ve got a Wonka one ready for this year.
10. Heated vest: Fishermen, bikers and those who love outdoor pursuits have kept these a well- guarded secret. A heated base layer with various settings and some have USB chargers too. This is on my Xmas list please Santa.
11. Alpaca wool socks: Not only are they warm, they’re anti-allergenic, anti-odour and don’t need washing as the wool cleans itself. Those of you who know me well know I don’t need any excuse to hug an alpaca (I highly recommend it for wellbeing purposes). Prices start from £10ish but investing in a pair of alpaca wool socks has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Right up there with going freelance. Why not treat yourself to a pair (and an alpaca walk) and thank a fluffy for the insulation.

Bring on the winter chill. We’re ready! And if you’ve got tips that I’ve missed let me know below or via my socials.

(Just one other thing (Columbo voice): Other brands are available. I’m not on commission or paid to advertise. I’m just grateful to those who keep me warm 😊).