November is always such a tough month. I am either too warm or too hot. It is easy to take layers off, but warming up can be a little difficult. This piece gives the basics of getting warm after getting too cold.

This morning I went for a 30 mile ride with some friends. Although I had received tips on what to wear, I do not have booties for my feat and only wore my long tights. The temperature seemed to drop and then it got wet. There was snow flying in my eyes, slush was flying into my face from the bike in front of me. Upon getting home, it was time for me to leap into action. My feet hurt from being cold and my legs that were not properly layered for the temperature/snow.

So here is my ritual with dealing with this all too common November situation.

1. Take all that cold, wet stuff off.
2. Dry off as much as possible.
3. Fill the tub, sink, or mixing bowl with cold water.
4. Put feet in the tub, sink, or bowl and they will feel hot in the cold water.
5. Let feet sit in the water until they find the water cold or stop hurting.
6. If you have the luxury, fill the tub with warm water and soak. This is an ideal opportunity to stretch any muscles that may have tightened in the cold.
7. Dry off, moisturize (Be nice to your skin) and get dressed, or don’t.

When I have landed myself in this situation, I also try to make sure that I drink lots of water rather than tea and coffee. Not drinking enough water can leave muscles sore and make riding the next day seem like a chore.