Spring Fever
- Julie Roy
- Mar 4
- 1 min read
Did you know that in late February and early March you can still experience seasonal affective disorder? It is a type of winter burnout.
You may notice some days that winter is not quite over, but your brain and body are wishing for true spring. The days are getting longer, and your nervous system is waking up, but your environment still feels gray, cold, and stuck many days.
That mismatch can affect your mood more than you realize.
Many people notice
• low motivation
• irritability
• restlessness
• trouble concentrating
• emotional exhaustion
• the feeling that something needs to change but you cannot name what
There is even a word for why a random sunny day suddenly makes everything feel easier.
Apricity:
the warmth of sunlight on your face in winter.
Because light helps regulate mood, sleep, hormones, and energy. Your body is biologically wired to respond to it. So if you have felt more emotional, stuck, or worn down lately, it does not automatically mean something is wrong with your life.
You may simply be transitioning seasons.
Be gentle with yourself right now.
Your mind is thawing before the weather does. But, if possible, grab some time on those sunny days to soak up at least a few minutes of vitamin D and your body and mind will thank you!
For more on Seasonal Affective Disorder, see my post: https://www.compassionatecounselingmidmichigan.com/post/seasonal-affective-disorder
And for more coping see: https://www.compassionatecounselingmidmichigan.com/post/gratitude-practices
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