Are you a snow-lover, or a beach bum?
There are lots of reasons you may prefer warmer weather over the cold. But one thing you may not have thought about is how the weather where you live affects your body. What if we told you that living in warm weather is good for you?
As it turns out, climate and temperature can have a big impact on your health.
And while you may have your own preferences, the facts are clear: there are lots of health benefits to living in warm weather.
Perhaps it is time to book that family trip to Florida you have been talking about? Don’t worry, Florida isn’t all beaches and Disney, there are plenty of incredible places to visit in Florida for nature lovers too! So pack up your parka, step outside, and let the sunshine in.
5 Benefits of Living in Warm Weather
1. Get More Sunlight.
Sunlight exposure increases your body’s vitamin D levels which is critical for your health. Vitamin D can prevent cancer, provide higher energy levels, and keep your bones strong and healthy.
And even though Vitamin D is so important for your health, researchers at Central Washington University claim that 77% of people are vitamin D deficient because they don’t get enough sunlight.
The easiest way to fix that is to get outdoors and soak up some sun. If you’re locked up most of the year indoors because of cold temperature, ice and snow, it may be time to consider a move somewhere with more sunshine. Just remember to get a moderate amount, because getting too much sunlight can be harmful as well.
Related Article: Why You Need More Sunlight: The Benefits of Vitamin D
2. Get Physical (Exercise).
Let’s face it – you’re probably more motivated to exercise, or just get up and go, when it’s nice outside. The couch and TV just look a little less appealing when the sun is shining through on a clear day. And research backs this up.
One research study showed that teenagers are more active in the summertime and less active in winter. In a region with warm weather year-round, exercise and physical activity become the norm.
Related Article: Little Known Exercise Facts That Could Affect Your Memory
3. Warm Weather Improves Your Memory
Research shows that your overall alertness & mental performance is at their best when your body temperature is high. Staying warm in nice weather helps keep you alert and improves your memory.
And sure, you can keep your body temperature up regardless of the temperature outside, but it’s a lot easier when you don’t have to wear 7 layers just to stay warm.
4. Warm Weather is Safer for You
Studies have shown that death rates tend to be higher in cold climates. People who have easy access to heat & good housing may not be as affected, but for those who are struggling, the winter & cold weather could be a killer.
Another risk factor is an illness. Flu and cold season is always during the winter months and especially bad between December to February. Much of that is due to people being indoors and inhaling the virus. Getting outdoors in warm weather helps kill off the virus and makes it difficult for it to spread.
5. It’s Better for Your Heart & Lungs.
Cold weather can have a negative impact on your health, especially your heart and respiratory system. When your body works to regulate heat, your blood pressure can increase to unhealthy levels, causing long-term damage.
The Takeaway
There’s more to living in a warm area than just getting the benefit of a healthy tan. Warmth and sunlight can offer real benefits to your health. From improved heart and lung health to enhanced mental performance, living in a warm climate could give you just the health boost you need.