I took up skiing and skating to get over some fears of mine (heights, speed, falling etc) and so that I could enjoy those sports in places I hope to visit some day (Chamonix-Mont Blanc, Kitzbuhel).
Another large reason, it to help keep my metabolism and overall energy level higher during the winter months.
You see, I naturally want to hibernate and eat when the cold weather comes.
Our society makes most of us work throughout the year, regardless of whether our bodies want to do not. It causes a lot of stress to go against our natural grain like that. Perhaps that is why a lot of us want to retire early -- in order to finally live according to natural cycles? I know that is true for me!
Winter is the season where the decreased sunlight triggers a hibernation response in humans and animals. Those of us with a winter would know what I'm talking about. We are not that much different than the bears!
I know of people who are prone to depression during the low sunlight times of the year. I know of people who use tanning salons to get their UV fix and claim to feel much better (same with people who head South for the winter). I know of people who use special full spectrum lamps at home for the same reason.
We heal and regenerate during the "down times", our nightly sleep, seasonal hibernation and siestas etc. I personally feel we don't have enough down time at the right times.
I agree with that! But, I simply think we don't have enough downtime, period.
ReplyDeleteI think you are right on wanting to retire early due to living our natural cycles. Our natural clocks for that matter. I hate this forced entry of having to wake up at 5:30am, work, eat, sleep by 10:00pm, repeat.
BTW, I am going to learn to ski in March. One of the things on my Bucket List.
We don't really have a winter here in So. Cal, but there is some snow in Big Bear Mountain. ;)
You are so right. I feel like everything I do (eat, sleep, activity etc) is done on a schedule that has nothing to do with my rhythm. I have to force myself to keep up - especially this time of year. I miss the sun and the long days of summer.
ReplyDeletehey... this reminds me of another big result of hybernating ... yeah.. guessed it right .. u transform yourself from a caterpillar to a butterfly !!ha, ha ! Yes, i agree with your viewpoint.
ReplyDeleteHi Money Funk! I believe you are right. We don't have enough down time. I've done my best for now, carving out a work schedule that gives me maximal time but I do crave having all of to myself!
ReplyDeleteI am so excited for you! I checked out the Bear Mountain site. There is some great elevation there. The views will be magnificent!
Hi Money Minder! Me too! Especially with record snowfall and cold temperatures this year! At least you will be heading somewhere warm soon!
Hi snigdha! Yes, I remember!
I haven't skied since I was a little little kid. I don't enjoy being cold so it's not high on my to do list. I spent two weeks in Chamonix in high school, beautiful place and I'd love to go back.
ReplyDeleteI agree. Even our daily schedule (i.e. 9-5) is dictated to us, regardless of what hours actually best suit the individual. Perhaps one day, we'll all be able to fit work, play and rest into our natural rhythms.
ReplyDeleteHi Miss M!
ReplyDeleteWow, it must have been amazing! Did you do your schooling in Europe?
I cannot say I am partial to cold weather either. I have had to buy some serious thermal underwear!
Hi livingmyrichlife!
That is definately the dream! Our health will thank us too, I'm sure!