Physiology
Hibernation
A state of prolonged torpor in which body temperature, heart rate, and metabolic rate drop dramatically to conserve energy during periods of resource scarcity, typically winter.
Biological Context
True hibernators like ground squirrels can reduce body temperature near freezing and heart rate to a few beats per minute, surviving months without eating. Hibernation is triggered by shortening days and dropping temperatures, preparing the body through fat accumulation and physiological changes.
Business Application
Corporate hibernation: dramatically reducing operations during market downturns to survive until conditions improve. Requires advance preparation (reserves) and careful management of the awakening process.