As winter approaches and temperatures drop, many people feel a natural urge to stay indoors, gather with loved ones, and reduce their activity levels. While this is often interpreted as lethargy, science suggests it is a fundamental biological response.
The Evolutionary Roots of Rest
The instinct to hunker down is widespread across the animal kingdom. Animals such as voles and garter snakes congregate in winter to conserve heat, share food finding resources, and better spot predators. These behaviors provide significant evolutionary advantages, allowing species to survive harsh conditions by pooling energy and resources.
A Biological Imperative for Humans
Neuroscientist Anne-Laure Le Cunff explains that humans share this ancient impulse to hibernate. Despite modern expectations to remain consistently productive, our bodies still follow seasonal biological rhythms. The feeling of running on "half-battery" or low energy in December is often misidentified as laziness or burnout. Instead, it is a valid physiological signal that the body requires rest and recharging. The findings suggest that entrepreneurs and professionals should stop fighting this natural cycle and allow themselves to "semi-hibernate" to align with their biological needs.
Mentoring question
How can you adjust your current expectations of productivity to honor your body’s natural need for rest without feeling guilty?