Seasons and Our Health: New Frontiers in Research

The sun in Melbourne this week made me feel like a new woman! I felt like a snake at the beginning of shedding an old skin.

I know we’ll have cold days before the days warm up – that’s Melbourne!- but I’m extremely grateful for even a few days of respite after our extremely chilly winter.

The good news is Spring is only a few weeks away.The changing of the seasons

is more than just a shift in the calendar: it’s a transformative force that profoundly impacts our physical and mental wellbeing. This results from the interplay between sunlight, temperature, and our bodies, which creates a complex dance of adaptation.

While we all notice connections between seasons and our wellbeing at some level, recent research is uncovering some fascinating new insights:

The Gut-Microbiome Connection

• Our gut microbiome changes with the seasons, influencing digestion, immunity, and mood.

• Seasonal dietary variations can impact the composition of gut bacteria, further emphasizing the importance of aligning our diet with the seasons.

Sleep and Circadian Rhythms

• Shorter days can interfere with our internal body clock, affecting sleep patterns and mood. Research indicates that our sleep patterns naturally shift with the seasons, with longer sleep durations in winter and shorter sleep in summer.

• The body’s production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, is influenced by light exposure, highlighting the importance of maintaining consistent sleep routines throughout the year.

Mood and Energy

• Cold weather often reduces outdoor activities, leading to a sedentary lifestyle. As the days shorten and temperatures drop, many people experience a decline in mood and energy levels.

• Sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation. This is why we often feel happier and more energetic during the summer months.

Mental Health and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

• Researchers are exploring the broader impact of seasonal changes on mental health, including anxiety and depression symptoms outside of the typical Season Affective Disorder (SAD) timeframe.

• Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood, with potential benefits varying across seasonss

Exercise and Performance

• Our commitment to exercise, and how well performance, is influenced by factors like temperature, humidity, and daylight hours.

• Tailoring training programs to specific seasons can optimize performance and reduce injury risk.

Tailoring Your Workout to the Seasons

The changing seasons offer an opportunity to adapt your workout routine to optimize results.

• Spring: focus on building endurance and strength. Activities like hiking, cycling, and bodyweight exercises are ideal.

• Summer: take advantage of the warmer weather and the things you balk at in winter like hot/cold therapy and longer workouts.

• Autumn: transition to indoor workouts or outdoor activities with layers. Focus on strength training and flexibility.

• Winter: prioritize indoor workouts like yoga, Pilates, and strength training to maintain muscle mass and improve balance.

Finding Balance Throughout the Year

While the seasons undeniably influence our wellbeing, it’s essential to find strategies to thrive year-round:

• Prioritize Sunlight: Make a conscious effort to spend time outdoors, even during winter.

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Nourish your body with vitamin-rich foods to support overall health.

• Manage Stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing into your routine.

• Regular Exercise: Stay active throughout the year to boost mood and energy levels.

• Social Connection: Maintain strong social bonds for emotional support.

Every season offers unique opportunities for growth and enjoyment. Embrace the changes, and let nature be your guide to a healthier, happier you.

See you at Be Well again soon!

Lifelong Health, Made Simple

PS: Dont forget our August Be Well Conversation with Kinesiologist, Amanda Campbell, next Thursday evening.

She has an exceptional story to tell, and many valuable insights you’re going to enjoy immensely!