Happy holidays from my family to yours.
This year was a little extra special as we celebrated, for the first time, as a family of four, giving us even more to be thankful for.
As we quickly wrap up 2024, the weather here in Seattle is entering its familiar doom-and-gloom period. Areas to the east are getting snow, and the mountains are showing off their frosty caps. Since moving to the PNW, I’ve learned to embrace the cold temps because, to be honest, if you don’t, you’ll end up cooped up inside for not just days but more like 7 months. While it might seem counterintuitive, embracing the chill can actually be very beneficial. This month, I’m featuring some of the ways cold weather and winter activities can boost your well-being, along with recommendations for where to stay to experience the best of the season.
Top 5 Benefits of Cold Weather & Wellness Activities

1 - Physical Benefits
The winter season seems to be the time for all kinds of sicknesses (especially if you have little kids!). Exposure to cold temperatures can actually have some pretty cool health perks. It can boost the production of white blood cells, which help fight off infections and reduce inflammation in the body. Your body also works harder to stay warm when it’s cold outside, which means you’re burning more calories. Plus, cold-weather workouts give you a more intense cardio session and help your body use oxygen more efficiently leading to better cardiovascular health and improved endurance overtime.
Where to Stay: Eleven Deplar Farm | Olafsfjördur, Iceland
A converted sheep farm houses 13 Scandi-chic suites. All farm-to-table meals included, as are 2 guided adventures each day. Winter activities: dog-sledding, snowmobiling, rides in customized Sno-Cat, and optional heli-skiing outings. Soak in the spa’s floatation tanks or the geothermally heated pool while gazing at the Northern Lights (pictured above).

2 - Improve Your Sleep
Cold weather has been shown to promote better sleep which is always a win after the chaos of the holidays. Our bodies naturally produce and release melatonin, our sleep-regulating hormone, in response to darkness and cooler temperatures. The cold can also increase the amount of time spent in deep sleep aka our restorative phase of sleep.
Now hang with me on this idea...but I think the best way to truly experience this is by staying in a hotel made of ice. Yes, they do exist. Check out this 4-day experience in Sweden!

3 - Mental Benefits
When you think of cold weather, you don't necessarily think of it as stress-reducing or a mood booster, but in fact, it is. Cold-weather activities often involve exposure to sunshine, which can increase serotonin and improve our moods. Plus, immersing yourself in nature can have a calming effect and reduce stress levels. We'll take 'quiet and snowy still landscape' for $200, Alex!
Where to stay: Schloss Elmau Luxury Spa Retreat and Cultural Hideaway | Elmau, Germany

4 - Cold Weather ACTIVE-ities
Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, winter hiking...take your pick! There are so many outdoor activities to embrace the cold no matter your wellness journey. These outdoor adventures are the best of both worlds. Not only do they allow for beautiful views but they are also a great form of exercise (often, without even realizing it).
Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch | Beaver Creek, CO
Ski pristine powder, hike lush mountain forests, or relax by the glow of a roaring fire. With a resort spa, locally inspired dining, and unmatched ski-in/ski-out access.

5 - Soaking in Hot Springs
If you've experience hot springs before then you know how relaxing they can be. Naturally heated mineral-rich waters can do so much for our bodies. Now add stunning winter scenery, luxurious accommodations and I think it's safe to say you may have found your winter bliss.
Where to Stay: Dunton Hot Springs | Dolores, CO
Guests enjoy their own hot springs, and every conceivable winter sport, including heli-skiing.
Wellness Travel has more recently become one of the more trendy types of travel. As more people are trying to prioritize their health on vacation, it is growing in the travel industry and we are excited for it! At J5Travel, we know the positive impact it can have on our lives and that's why we're excited to continue to share this side of travel with you.
If you would like to start planning your version of a Wellness Travel vacation let us know by clicking the button below.