Nostalgia 'makes you feel warmer'

Feeling nostalgic about days gone by can make us feel warmer, new research suggests.

The study investigated the effects of nostalgic feelings on reaction to cold and the perception of warmth.

The volunteers, from universities in China and the Netherlands, took part in one of five studies.

Dr Tim Wildschut, senior lecturer at the University of Southampton and co-author of the study, said: “Our study has shown that nostalgia serves a homeostatic function, allowing the mental simulation of previously enjoyed states, including states of bodily comfort; in this case making us feel warmer or increasing our tolerance of cold.”