Now that we’ve gotten the first taste of what is the rollercoaster known as winter in North Carolina, we’re sure sure Triangle New Parents are trying to figure out how to beat cabin fever AND keep your kiddo (and yourself) warm through the next few months. Thankfully, our resident Scandi of Emerald Doulas, Isabel, has offered to impart the secrets of how on Earth we keep ourselves alive in the freezing cold that is Norway.
For wintertime new parents (especially those who tend towards introvertedness anyway), the chilly winter weather can be a season of staying home, inside, where it’s warm and snuggly. Frankly, who can blame you?! That is a very excellent way to spend your postpartum hours! However, after a while, it can also be a bit isolating.
For families who are experiencing a perinatal mood disorder, that cabin fever can also contribute to worsening symptoms of anxiety or depression. So, birth professionals and doulas like us like to encourage all families to get outside for a bit each day. Even if it’s cold. That’s because enjoying just 10-15 minutes of sunshine on a brief walk, can work wonders for lifting your mood (and provide baby with a good bit of stimulation!).
But. That cold. It’s like, super cold. How do you support your mental health with a little Sunshine Therapy AND not freeze at the same time?
I’ve got two words for ya: wool and layers of clothing on your body. Preferably several layers of wool, but that’s just my preference.
What is so magical about wool, you ask? It keeps you warm, while at the same time, it’s super breathable. This helps keep you cool enough so you don’t overheat — it’s like a magical superhero suit that adjusts to your needs, but way more affordable.
You can even wear wool during the summer! The secret lies in the crimp of the fibres. Wool is able to react to fluctuations in your body temperature due to tiny pockets of air within the fibres that circulate heat. This means that wool will keep you warm when your body is cold, and cool when it's hot.
Now, I’m sure the word itchy has popped into your brain.
At least that’s the most common reaction I get when I tell people I wear several layers of wool during the winter. And to be clear, we’re talking October to May for my seasonal wool layering — I might run a little colder than most people. Point is, let me teach you my ways …
Buy the good stuff
This means 100% wool, merino wool preferably, or cashmere if you’re feeling fancy. Buy it from a reputable resource, which means companies that are based in Scandinavia or Vermont, or somewhere else that gets stupid cold during the winter. If you’re lucky enough to find your wool options in-person, stroke your cheek with it to see if it’s soft.
You want it to be soft because: Wool should be your base layer
This means that it is touching your skin. I wear a wool tank top from October to May and it keeps my core warm, which heats up the rest of my body, which seems important.
Layering is your (best) friend
Wearing multiple thin layers is better than wearing a single, thicker layer because warm air gets trapped between the layers, acting as an insulator. If you then remove a layer you would reduce the amount of heat trapped which would cool you down. Plus, then you’re prepared for different environments; warm inside — shed a layer, going back outside — toss on that layer (and a jacket, please), extra warm inside — ready for that, too because you are the layering champ.
But Isabel, what about washing the wool?
Good news, friend — not only is wool naturally breathable, it is also moisture-wicking, which means that when you sweat, the perspiration evaporates from your skin into the air, rather than getting trapped inside the fabric. (I.e., you don’t have to wash wool after every use, just hang it up to dry if it is a little damp from sweat). And when you do wash it, make sure to use a detergent that is designed for wool, and make sure to clean it on a gentle cycle if you have one. Or by hand, even.
Get yourselves some proper winter jackets/pants, too.
Stay warm from the head down! Wrap your kid up in all their layers and take them outside.
I don’t know about you Americans, but us Norwegians are of the belief that fresh air does the soul good, AND it also has the added effect of tiring you (and your kiddo) out! It’s a win-win-win!
Where to buy (good) wool:
hm.com has a good amount of wool in their kids section, but only online
https://www.polarnopyretusa.com/ if you look at their thermal layers, you’ll find plenty! They also have great outdoor jackets/pants/suits
rei.com Best place to find stuff for adults
sloomb.com they have wool pants among other things, which is the cutest thing a small human can ever wear
mercari.com used stuff!
thredup.com more used stuff because small humans grow very fast
ellaswool.com super cute wool tubes/pants that grow and stretch with your growing kiddo