Four Ways The Weather Totally Changes Your Mental and Physical Health

I don't know about you, but the cooler weather of fall is always my favorite time of the year.  It's cool enough to just be cool enough - not too cold, and not too warm.Admittedly, as much as I love the cooler weather,  I turned on the heat pretty much right away this year.  You know, there's always a gap between when you turn the air off, and turn the heat on?  Anyway, apparently fall is doing me some good, and there's more to the weather and your mental and physical health.

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Here are four ways the weather can impact your health.

1.  Cooler temperatures can help you sleep.

According to a researcher at the National Sleep Foundation, the ideal temperature for sleeping is 60 to 68 degrees.  That's because when your body cools down, it preps your brain for sleep.  My heat is only set at like, 72, so I'm close.

2.  Extreme weather could lead to psychological problems.

People who live in areas that are susceptible to hurricanes or tornadoes are at a higher risk for mental issues.  I mean... yeah.  I'm not saying we are, but...well.   Moving on. And according to a report from the National Wildlife Federation, approximately 200 million Americans may have psychological problems such as anxiety or substance abuse due to weather-related issues. So it's not just us.

3.  Sunny days are linked with a mood boost.

A study at the University of Michigan found that people who spend at least half an hour outdoors in sunny weather had happier moods than people who didn't.  I know some people really dig that stuff, even if I'm unimpressed.

4.  Your blood pressure is lower in the summer.

Research shows that your blood pressure drops in the summer due to a change in atmospheric pressure.  In the winter, lower temps cause your blood vessels to narrow, which can increase pressure.

I'll keep my fall weather, thanks.

Autumnally yours,
Behka