Snooze & Fitness in the Freezy Season: The Link Between Winter Sleep and Health

Winter is coming, and it isn’t only bringing holiday carols and hot cocoa; it’s also lugging along a sleepier version of you. Hold on, don’t whip out the energy drinks just yet! Did you know increasing your sleep during the frosty season may have some surprising benefits, from a stronger immune system to improved mental wellbeing? And let’s not forget its subtle dance with exercise. Let’s cuddle up with a blanket, sip some herbal tea, and deep dive into our journey through winter sleep and wholesome health.

The Sun-Lit Clock inside You

Ever wondered why you transform into a snooze monster when winter rolls around? The key to this mystery lies with our good ol’ friend, the Sun, and your body’s circadian rhythms. Studies from researchers at the Charité Medical University of Berlin point out that your inner clock aligns itself with the changing daytime light patterns. As daylight dwindles, darkness swoops in and turns up the melatonin volume, your sleep-inducing hormone. Couple that with colder temperatures, and voilà, your metabolism shifts gears, further pushing you into the land of dreams. So, you’re not alone in wanting to hibernate! Around 34% of Americans reported sleeping more during winter, according to a survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

Wintry Sleep and Your Health: The Holy Duet

The advantages of sleeping more in winter are like toppings on your favorite bowl of fitness soup. Adults who aim for 7 hours or more of nocturnal slumber can benefit in a plethora of ways. Your immune system might just develop superhero strength keeping those nasty colds and flus at bay. Plus, with adequate sleep, heart disease and diabetes might have to take a raincheck. No, we’re not finished glorifying sleep yet! A healthy sleep regimen, coupled with a nutrition-packed diet, can influence your weight. Those who hit the magical 7 or more sleep hours per night see a lower chance of ballooning up.

Speak of holistic health, and mental wellbeing walks into the room. Inadequate sleep may usher in unwanted guests – anxiety and depressive disorders. Nipping winter blues in the bud could be as simple as ensuring you nestle comfortably in your bed for a peaceful 7-hour snooze.

Outsmarting the Winter Sandman

Despite sleep’s benefits, excessive winter sleepiness can throw a wrench in your day. How about we tackle this together, huh?

Bath in Morning Sunshine

Start your day in light! Let in sunshine right away in the morning as it keeps melatonin in check. Greater exposure to sunlight doesn’t only make your days brighter but also helps you regulate sleep patterns. Ah, the wonders of Vitamin D!

Be a Winter Workout Warrior

Carve out time for a daily workout. A brisk morning walk, perhaps? This helps awaken your body after a night’s hibernation. Such activities could gift you a hearty dosage of Vitamin D and assist in balancing circadian rhythms. You could invite a fitness buddy or join a workout group to stay motivated.

Nap Tactfully

Resist the temptation for extended snoozes. Stick to power naps – short and sweet – of around 20 minutes to ensure you don’t go into REM sleep. If you’ve been thinking about sprucing up your bedroom, winter might be the right time for a cozy remodel!

Lay off Screens before Bedtime

Night-time usage of devices can muddle your sleep routine. They hinder the production of melatonin, scattering your sleepiness. So, let’s toss those gadgets aside and allow your body to wind down before bed.

Fluid Intake: Stop the Mid-Sleep Sprints to the Washroom

Limit your evening fluids to avoid interruptive bathroom trips. If this becomes a problem, don’t hesitate to check in with your doctor.

Maintain the Perfect Bedroom Thermostat

Your sleep also depends on your room temperature. Adjust your thermostat to around 65 degrees, the universally acclaimed “perfect” sleep temperature. It’s just another way your body tries to optimize melatonin production.

To Conclude…

• Our bodies sync with daylight, leading to increased sleep in winter.
• Sleeping during the winter contributes to an all-round healthier profile, including improved physical and mental health.
• Optimal sleep habits – combined with proper physical activities and a balanced diet – can influence your health and exercise regime positively.
• Sensible tactics like monitoring screen time and fluid intake, exercising, and adjusting your home’s thermostat can boost sleep quality.

Source Citation: https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/why-we-sleep-more-in-the-winter/