The Health Benefits of South African Winters
In some parts of the country winters may be cold, frosty and wet, but they also offer a range of health benefits that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top health benefits of South African winters:
The cold weather actually helps us to sleep better as the body is better able to regulate its temperature. Research has shown that the ideal bedroom temperature is between 15 and 19 degrees Celsius and this can easily be achieved during winter. The cooler temperatures also help with the production of melatonin, which helps us stay asleep throughout the night.
We are incredibly lucky that South Africa produces an abundance and great selection of delicious & fresh winter fruits and veggies, enabling us to nourish our bodies with warming, comforting and nutritious food. When we eat seasonally and consume healthy winter foods, we are eating the best that nature has to offer for the cold days, whilst also doing our bit for the planet. Taking advantage of winter’s bounty, we boost our immunity, overall health and well-being.
Exercising during winter is a great way of warming up our bodies naturally as it helps to increase blood flow to our limbs. Being active regularly is known to increase our energy levels, strengthen our immunity, improve sleep, reduce our risk of chronic diseases and so much more. Exercise can boost your mood at any time of the year, but it has a particularly profound effect during winter, by sending those, endorphins, our all important feel good hormones soaring.
Did you know that colder temperatures can help you think more clearly? Research has shown that people perform some cognitive tasks like decision making and staying calm, with more control when it is colder. It has also shown that during winter, we are more inclined to tackle more complex tasks than in summer. This is because the brain requires glucose to function, but the body needs more of it when it’s warm in order to keep or temperature down.
Compared to many other parts of the world, South African winters are mostly pleasantly sunny, Cape Town being the exception at the moment. The winter sun is a great source of Vitamin D which is essential for strong bones and a healthy immune system. Exposure to sunlight boosts our moods and also helps to regulate our circadian rhythm.
So, embrace our South African winter, get outside and enjoy all that this beautiful season has to offer.
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