You’re Not a Bear! Why not to hibernate this winter
Winter can be tough, even for the most motivated among us. The cold mornings, shorter days, and comfort food cravings can make it feel like your energy (and health goals) are hibernating. And then there’s your friends slumming it in Europe for the northern summer (we see you, Be Wellers! 😉 For those Winter Warriors toughing out the Melbourne cold, I have got great news for you. Every session at Be Well is ensuring your gut, immune system, and muscles are your real winter coat. They keep you strong, balanced, and energised through the darkest months set you up for a vibrant spring and Staying active through winter isn’t just about fighting off the winter kilos or keeping your joints moving. It taps into some surprisingly powerful (and little-known) health benefits. Here’s what science is showing us about the hidden advantages of keeping fit when the days get colder and shorter: Cold-Weather Workouts Supercharge Your Energy SystemsTraining in the cold increases your mitochondrial density, these are the tiny “engines” in your cells that produce energy. More mitochondria means: Better stamina Improved metabolism Higher energy levels all day This is especially important as we get older as mitochondrial decline is linked to fatigue, brain fog, and slower recovery. Cold Is Nature’s Anti-InflammatoryEven moderate exposure to cold can reduce chronic inflammation, especially when combined with movement. That means: Less joint pain Better immune regulation Lower risk of age-related diseases It’s a natural, accessible form of “inflammation therapy”. That’s why we call our hot & cold baths Hydrotherapy Baths. Brain Power Gets a BoostExercising in winter elevates levels of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), a brain protein that helps you grow new neurons and protect memory. Cold weather may enhance this effect even further, sharpening focus and protecting against cognitive decline. Brown Fat Activation = Better MetabolismYour body burns more calories to stay warm during winter workouts. It also activates brown fat, a special kind of fat that: Generates heat Burns energy Improves insulin sensitivity This is particularly beneficial for those managing midlife weight changes. Winter Movement Builds Mental ToughnessPeople who maintain exercise routines through winter report: More self-discipline Lower rates of seasonal depression Stronger long-term health habits Think of winter as training not just for your body, but also for your mind. Hot Tip! Fuel Your Gut About 70% of our immune system lives in our gut. A happy gut is a strong immune system, so important in winter when colds, flu, and viruses are more common. Add prebiotic power: garlic, onions, leeks, oats and asparagus are your winter superstars feeding the good bacteria in your gut. Plus eating fermented foods like a tablespoon of sauerkraut, kefir, miso, or kimchi daily boosts microbiome diversity and immunity. Here’s the twist: movement in winter helps diversify and strengthen your gut bacteria, improving immunity, digestion, metabolism and, wonderfully, our mood: Regular exercise stimulates gut-friendly bacteria like Akkermansia, which helps reduce inflammation and manage weight. Staying active helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which controls your gut’s timing and function, and improves the regularity and quality of our sleep. Don’t hibernate this winter! By nourishing your gut, supporting your immune system, and staying active, you’re not just surviving winter, you’re thriving through it. Embrace the season, connect with fellow Be Well members, and get stronger, healthier, and ready for whatever comes next. Your September self will thank you when spring arrives and you’re already strong, clear, and glowing from the inside out. I look forward to seeing you at Be Well again soon.. Navigate to more articles! PrevPreviousHow Old are You Really? Be Well is the first-of-its- kind urban health, wellness and lifestyle club in Melbourne, Australia. Informed by the science of longevity, Be Well nurtures the relationship you have with yourself and others, to optimise your lifestyle, and live your longest, best life.
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