Well, we’ve finally made it! After the long lull of winter, we are finally getting small signs of spring! The days are getting longer, the temperature is slowly creeping up, tree buds are starting to open and more wildlife is emerging. Like many people, I find winter very challenging; the cold and darkness brings an innate desire to rest and slow down, though the world still expects us to be as productive as ever. Many of us experience more lethargy and the tendency to isolate during the cold months. But every year, I notice a major shift in my headspace as spring starts to emerge: I feel more energetic, optimistic, and motivated. You may also be noticing this seasonal mood shift, so let’s explore some of the mechanisms at play and how you can fully embrace the spring season.
Symbolism of Spring
Spring may bring to mind images of brightly colored flowers blooming and newly born baby animals, like chicks and fawns. It’s no surprise that spring is often associated with themes of rebirth, renewal, and reemergence as nature reawakens following the static winter months. Cultures around the world mark the spring season, whether it be the spring equinox or other religious and secular celebrations that take place during these months. It’s regarded as a time of opportunity and optimism, in part due to the natural abundance. These spring traditions and rituals help us tap into the restorative energy of the season. It’s also no wonder that many poets, writers, and artists have drawn inspiration from the season of growth.
In a philosophical sense, spring is also a beautiful reminder of the presence of cycles and impermanence. From the cold and dark of winter emerges such beauty and possibility. Our lives follow similar patterns to nature; there will be times of stagnation and darkness as well as periods of abundance and growth. Comfort can be found in these rhythms and the reminder that things are ever changing and evolving.
Physiological and Routine Changes
Spring triggers some changes in our bodies that may impact our mental health. As the days become longer and we experience more natural light, our circadian rhythms may adjust. Sunlight influences our bodies’ production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates our sleep/ wake cycle. Our bodies may also ramp up serotonin production in the spring, which is a mood boosting hormone. With increased sun exposure as we spend more time outside, our bodies’ vitamin D levels also increase. These hormonal shifts can result in feeling more energized and alert than we do during the winter months.
Our routines often change in the springtime as well. As the weather warms, we tend to spend more time outdoors, which likely means more physical activity. Exercise means more dopamine and endorphins, those feel-good hormones, which can contribute to boosts in mood. The season may also bring more opportunities for social connection and engagement outside the home. Nurturing our relationships and spending time with loved ones is another research-backed way to boost mood. As some of these changes are occurring naturally in our bodies, we can bolster those biological shifts in our actions as well.
Embracing the Season and Reaping the Mental Health Benefits
One of the simplest ways to immerse yourself in the season is to spend more time outdoors, preferably amongst nature. Much research has been done on the psychological benefits of being outdoors. We often forget that we are also natural beings and that biological landscapes can help calm our nervous systems and support emotional regulation. Based on where you live, this may require more intentional effort, like visiting a local park or botanical garden. But even if you live in an urban area, there are opportunities to engage with the natural world all over.
To reap the full benefits of nature, practice mindfulness and actively tune into the present moment. One easy way to fully immerse in your surroundings is to engage the senses. On your next outdoor venture, take a look around you in all directions. Raise your eyes up towards the sky, then down to the ground beneath your feet. Hone in on the various colors and shapes you see. Take deep breaths in through the nose and notice any scents. Try to identify the various sounds both close and distant. Notice any sensations, especially as we shed winter layers and can feel the wind and air on our skin. Engage your sense of touch by running your fingers across the bark of a tree or dipping your hand into the water of a stream or lake. By isolating each sense and focusing on what you experience in the here-and-now, you can appreciate the incredible natural shifts happening around us.
Spring provides a great opportunity to set new intentions and goals. January 1st is often seen as the ideal start date for resolutions, but this does us a real disservice. The dead of winter is a really hard time to get motivated and energized towards change! Instead, the season of growth and renewal may better bolster those intentions. By aligning our “new beginnings” with nature’s, it may be easier to commit to healthier habits. As with New Year’s, this shouldn’t be a total revamping of your life, but use it as an opportunity to check in with yourself on what is working and what may require more attention in your life. “Spring cleaning” is common for a reason, because the transition to spring allows us to shed the old to make room for more growth and bounty.
Acknowledging Spring Challenges
It’s also important to recognize that some people may not be feeling very renewed and enthusiastic as spring approaches, which is perfectly okay. Seasonal and routine shifts can invoke anxiety and depression symptoms. This season can also be challenging for people experiencing bipolar disorder, as spring can trigger manic or hypomanic episodes. If spring does not bring a sense of renewal for you, for these reasons or others, just acknowledge any emotions coming up, without judgement. It may also be a good time to connect with a therapist to support your mental health and help ease the seasonal transition.
Whether you are thrilled for the arrival of spring or not, there are small steps we can take to ease the transition and try to maximize on the benefits of this natural shift.