Here is spring, nature is waking up, the days are getting longer, the temperatures are rising… And yet, it can take us a little time to really emerge from winter lethargy. We feel tired, blue, even depressed. This condition is also called seasonal depression. To find a boost of energy and adapt our body to the new season ahead, here are some tips to adopt.
The transition from winter to spring can affect some people. It can deteriorate their mood and mental well-being. The Germans speak of “Frühjahrsmüdigkeit” (Frühjahr meaning spring and müdigkeit fatigue), a specific term to describe this annual fatigue which appears in spring. This exhaustion which we can experience with the arrival of good weather would be a story of hormones and metabolism.
In winter, we produce more melatonin, a natural hormone that promotes sleep. Even though spring is coming, our body takes a little time to get used to the new season and to replace the production of melatonin with serotonin, the so-called happiness hormone, linked to the increase in brightness. Furthermore, the body must also adapt to the change in metabolism, to a lighter diet after a winter of eating more fat. To best adapt to the changing season, here are some tips to apply on a daily basis to boost your mood.
To exercise
Moving your body is a great way to perk up when spring arrives. Physical activity releases endorphins, the “happy hormones”, helping to improve mood and reduce stress. According to a 2023 study conducted by Australian researchers, regular physical activity would be beneficial in reducing symptoms of depression, emotional distress and anxiety. Among the most beneficial practices, we find walking, yoga and fitness.
Spend time outdoors
With the return of sunny days, spending time in nature is strongly recommended. Strolling in a park, walking by a lake or tending to plants in your garden could even have an impact on the structure of the brain and improve mood, according to German scientists. Air stimulates the production of dopamine and endorphins in response to pain or stress. Being outside also allows us to be exposed to natural light, which would have a significant impact on our mood, but also our sleep.
Looking at a photograph of someone you love
As surprising as it may seem, the simple act of looking at an image of a loved one produces oxytocin, the love hormone, which relieves stress in the body. Kandi Wiens, researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, contacted by the NY Post, explains that “looking at a photo of a person you love “activates the parasympathetic nervous system” which has a calming effect on the body. More generally, spending time with loved ones can help you better manage your mood and stress.
Do meditation
Meditation is an ideal practice for relaxing the mind and chasing away negative thoughts generated by our mind. It not only allows us to sharpen our attention span, but also to work on our breathing and promote relaxation. According to a scientific study, training thirty minutes a day, six days a week for nine months would reduce cortisol production and reduce chronic stress. Meditation would promote brain activity in areas associated with positive feelings, including joy, curiosity, or enthusiasm.
Good in his body, good in his head!
Eat healthy
Adopting a healthy and balanced diet can help maintain good emotional balance. Consuming foods rich in nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins would allow the proper functioning of neurotransmitters and thus good regulation of mood.
