We explore the potential of inducing a prolonged state of hypometabolism in mice, similar to hibernation, through the optogenetic activation of Q neurons. These neurons, known for producing pyroglutamylated RFamide peptide (QRFP), and localized in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPe) have been previously shown to induce a hibernation-like, hypometabolic state when excited. Our approach utilizes a 10µW optogenetic stimulation of OPN4dC, specifically targeting the AVPe of QrfpiCre/+ mice, to activate Q neurons and induce a state we term optogenetic QIH (Q neuron-induced hypometabolism). Mimicking the intermittent hibernation patterns in ground squirrels and hamsters, we successfully induced QIH for durations extending from one to three months. The QIH was characterized by cycles of reduced metabolism lasting between 48 to 144 hours, punctuated by 24-hour intervals where mice exhibited normal body temperatures, allowing for maintaining feeding and drinking behaviors. Despite an initial decrease in body weight, mice eventually maintained stable weights without reaching critical health thresholds.Our findings indicate that mice can recover from QIH without any observable adverse effects on their activity levels or overall health, as evidenced by standard blood tests. This study not only underscores the feasibility of inducing long-term hypometabolism in mammals but also opens new avenues for research into therapeutic applications of induced hibernation states in humans for medical interventions and space travel.