Research suggests regular exposure to the cold can provide us with surprising health benefits.

It can ignite our metabolism, help us burn fat, reduce the risk of diabetes, strengthen our heart and lungs, and even fight off depression.

With summer firmly in the rearview around here, it’s time to get positive about the coming colder months.

Is Being Cold Healthy?

Why Is Being Exposed to The Cold Healthy?

Scott Carney is the author of What Doesn’t Kill Us, a bestselling exploration of environmental conditioning and the benefits of cold exposure.

He explains that exposing ourselves to thermogenic stress encourages growth, and that can include psychological growth, which always happens when you’re undergoing stress.

It could also be what is called hormesis, which is when you put yourself in a challenging situation and your body rises to the challenge by adapting.

Not only are there metabolic changes getting triggered, which burn extra fat, but also psychological changes that can build resilience and fight anxiety. (Source:www.mensfitness.co.uk)

How Can I Make Myself Warm Without anything?

Move your body. Go for a jog or a walk. Not only will it warm you up, it also helps build and sustain your muscles, while burning calories and making body heat.

If it becomes too cold outside, then hit the gym, or do some jumping jacks, push-ups, or any other exercise indoors.

How Can I Enjoy Cold In Winter?

Tips On How To Enjoy The Winter:

• Get outside whenever you can.
• Try a new winter activity or sport.
• Write a list of positive things about winter.
• Try some new winter hot drinks.
• Eat seasonally during the winter.
• Read books that make you feel good about winter.
• Stay connected with family and friends.

Can You Build Tolerance To Cold?

The good news is that not only will your body acclimate to the colder weather, but you can also hurry the process along.

In the 1960s, U.S. Army researchers found that men who spent eight hours a day in a 50°F (10°C) chamber became habituated to the cold and had mostly stopped shivering after two weeks. (Source: www.time.com)

Winter Sports And Activities To Try

• Skiing.
• Sledding.
• Snowshoeing.
• Hockey.
• Snowmobiling.
• Ice Fishing.
• Ice Climbing.
• Skating.
• Snowboarding.
• Winter bike trail riding.

Are People In Warmer Climates Happier?

A 2005 study found that spending more time outdoors in pleasant weather is associated with higher mood and better memory.

There was a negative affect shown related to increased humidity. It showed that high humidity lowered concentration and increased sleepiness. (Source: www.houstonmethodist.org)

Can Gloomy Weather Affect Your Mood?

If you feel down during a rainy day, it’s not just your imagination: Bad weather can indeed have a negative effect on our emotions.

According to one study, nearly 10 percent of people fall into the rain hater category. This group felt angrier and less happy on days with more precipitation.

Why Does My Mood Change When It Rains?

Rainy days can be known to contribute to depression and sadness. This is due to the dip in serotonin levels caused by a lack of sunshine.

The lower serotonin levels may also contribute to food cravings for comfort foods and carbohydrates because they boost serotonin levels. (Source: www.harmonybaywellness.com)

What Is The Perfect Weather For Humans?

Studies have shown that around 23°C is perfect for our health.

One of the body’s most important tasks is temperature regulation. When the ambient temperature is too hot or too cold, we use energy to regulate our body temperature.

Our body works like a generator, only instead of gas or petrol, it uses glucose to produce energy. (Source: www.expatra.com)

Is it Better To Live In A Cold Or Hot Climate?

Undoubtedly a warmer climate will promote health and well-being. 

People generally prefer a warm to a cold climate, as shown by the tendency to vacation in tropical areas during the winter, and to move to the south upon retirement.

Do You Age Slower In Cold?

Body temperature is one of the most well known and significant factors involved in lifespan.

Increased body temperature has shown to negatively associate with longevity and conversely, lower body temperature is associated with increased longevity and reduced aging. (Source: www.bradyholmer.medium.com)

Why Do I Look Older In Winter?

We’re exposed to less sunlight.

Vitamin D and vitamin K levels drop in winter, and are associated with darker circles under the eyes, giving the appearance of aging due to paler, and more transparent skin. (Source: www.thehealthy.com)

Final Thoughts:

With a bit of effort we can help our bodies and minds through the colder months.

Try a new winter sport or activity. Make plans to visit friends or family.

If you do live in a colder climate appreciate the sights and sounds of the changing seasons, and of course it always makes warmer weather easier to appreciate when it comes back around.

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