We often hear that the cold is good for our health, but do you know what exactly are the benefits that our body and mind get from cold temperatures?
We reveal to you 10 benefits of cold weather that make us love autumn and winter even more:
1. We have more energy
Do you want to burst with energy? Exposure to cold temperatures, for example walking in the cold, will fill you with energy and you will be energetic for hours after you return to the warmth. In order for the cold to have such an effect, you don't have to be exposed to it for a long time. A short time will be enough - so go for a brisk walk.
2. We sleep better
People who suffer from insomnia have a higher body temperature, so sleeping in a slightly cooled room, at an ideal temperature of 16 to 20 degrees Celsius, will help those who suffer from insomnia, as well as everyone else, to sleep better.
3. Cold promotes the burning of calories in brown adipose tissue
Brown adipose tissue produces heat and burns fat, and in babies it serves to regulate body temperature. In adults, brown adipose tissue is found in smaller amounts.
4. Our brain works better
It has been proven that at high temperatures, people make bigger, more complex decisions much less often. Hot weather depletes our glucose reserves faster, and since we use glucose in mental processes, the lack of it affects our ability to make decisions.
5. Because of cleaner air, we breathe better
Fall and winter mean saying goodbye to the poor air quality and high ozone levels common in the summer months. Because of the fresh, clean air, this time of year is ideal for being in nature, taking long walks and deep breathing.
6. Perfect running temperatures
Have you ever wondered why marathons are held in the late fall? This is because it is easier and more natural to run at lower temperatures. Running in hot and humid weather has a very exhausting effect on our body.
Research has also proven that we run faster in the cold, which means that we can burn more calories in a shorter time. And don't forget to dress in layers!
7. Cold reduces inflammation and drives away infections
Muscle inflammation is often alleviated by applying ice to the swollen and painful area. And low air temperatures have the same effect. Many athletes use cryotherapy, that is, ice therapy, which means exposure to extremely cold temperatures, in the treatment of inflammation and injuries. Being outside makes us more resilient. That's because the number of infection-fighting cells actually increases when we're out in the cold.
8. We feel better in our own skin
In cold weather we don't have to worry about how we look in a bikini which actually boosts our confidence. It's also the time of year when we think about exercise because of making New Year's resolutions.
9. We appreciate the days to come more
Research has shown that people who live in areas where it is always warm and sunny are actually no happier than others. People are in the best mood after a long period of colder and gloomier days. So, rejoice because warm and sunny days will come again.
10. There are no bugs in the cold
Cold temperatures kill bugs like mosquitoes, which means you don't have to fend off these tiny pests that can also spread disease, Steele reports.
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