Traveling with a Sensitive Body in Cold Weather? Here’s What’s Helping Me Thrive

By Sofa Ibrahim

I’ve been wearing socks around the house since I can remember.

Not just a cozy habit—more like a survival strategy.

Years ago, I noticed that when I stood barefoot on cold marble floors, my calves would spasm painfully. That sensation led me to never take warmth for granted again. So, socks became my travel companions.

As time passed, I began experiencing arthritis in my hands. My fingers would sometimes freeze in place—tense and immobile for what felt like five full minutes. It wasn’t just uncomfortable—it was alarming.

With each new signal from my body, I’ve learned to listen, to adapt, and to care for myself more intentionally.

My Experience in France: Winter Stomach Pain

On my recent trip to France, I experienced something new—and honestly, awful: winter stomach pain.

Not once. Not twice. But three times.

It felt like:

  • A spasm

  • A contraction

  • A punch of gastric flu

  • A persistent ache that just wouldn’t let go

And yes—it was spring. The temperatures were in the 60s (Fahrenheit), but my body reacted as if it were deep winter. Unlike LA, where the winters are dry and mild, this chill seemed to seep right into my core.

My Self-Care Toolkit While Traveling

I refused to let it ruin my adventure. Instead, I slowed down and got intentional. Here’s what helped me ease the pain—and might help you too if you’re sensitive to cold travel environments:

I wore thick socks at all times
I layered up, even indoors
I made hot tea part of my daily ritual
I breathed deeply, grounding myself
I practiced positive affirmations (mindset really does help)
I Googled foods to avoid for gastric upset
I invested in a heat pack (a game changer!)
I rested—no guilt, just grace

At moments like this, I'm so grateful to be staying in an Airbnb.
 Having a kitchen, space to move, and the ability to do simple home remedies while away from home makes all the difference.



Final Thoughts

I’m feeling so much better now. The heat pack, especially, has been a lifesaver. But more than anything, it’s the shift in mindset that matters most.

I'm learning not to push my limits just for the content or the itinerary. Because when you travel with love for your body, your journey gets even richer.

To anyone else dealing with body sensitivity while traveling:
You’re not alone. You’re not fragile.
You’re just in tune—and that’s your strength.


Looking for great places to stay in France? Here is my favorite site - Booking.Com

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