Summer or winter: which season is better?

Bre (Summer)

Personal preference aside, an array of advantages make summer's superiority clear. Free of winter's inconveniences, warmer months are more suitable for a healthier, happier lifestyle.

With its longer, sunnier days, summer is an ideal time to vacation and visit beaches, which is why it can be classified as peak travel season. Schools' annual 'summer break' only further engrains the season's reputation as one of freedom and fun. More fruits are in season, more blockbuster movies are released, and it's easier to get ready when warm clothes aren't needed.

Compared to winter, research shows that in summer, people are more active and less sedentary. Sunshine and higher temperatures boost positive moods, relaxation, and even memory. Sun also pays off in vitamin D and serotonin (the neurotransmitter linked to happiness). Sweating produces endorphins, aids the immune system, and provides detoxification.

Cold conditions are physically unfavorable. Populations consistently face more significant health risks and suffer increased mortality rates in lower temperatures, with excessive cold often accounting for most weather-related deaths. Spikes in cardiovascular mortality, exacerbated respiratory problems, and raised rheumatoid arthritis risk are all associated with cold surroundings.

Colder months impose troublesome, expensive--even dangerous challenges. Mental health struggles are greater in winter, with established links to Seasonal Affective Disorder and depressive episodes. Winter weather can be highly restrictive; heavy snowfall renders people immobile and unable to get to work or buy food. And when temperatures drop, staying warm can be costly. 

Free of the numerous troublesome factors of winter, summer reigns supreme. With cookouts, camping trips, music festivals, and more, summer's countless upsides promote feeling and living better.

Haley (Winter)

With many wonderful holidays, cozy weather, and seasonal sports, winter is definitely one of the best times of the year. 

Across religions and cultures, there are a variety of significant holidays that take place in winter, which bring friends and family together, including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. 

There are also several fun sports and activities limited to the winter season, like sledding, ice skating, and skiing. Furthermore, since most insects die off or disappear during the winter, it is easy to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about mosquito bites, wasp stings, and other irritations. The cold weather also makes it easier to play and compete without overheating. 

Depending on where you live, the temperatures can plunge drastically during the winter, but you can bundle up to stay warm. However, if you get too hot outside in the summer, there is very little you can do to cool off. Also, while the pressure to have a “summer body” or “bikini body” is ridiculous, layering up in the winter can comfort those with body confidence issues who suffer during the summer.

Unfortunately, some people are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during the winter months because of the decrease in sunlight. But according to Medical News Today, SAD can be combatted by taking vitamin D supplements, managing your diet, and staying active.

All seasons have their pros and cons; however, the positives far outweigh the negatives in the winter, making it the best season of the year.