What’s that saying you hear countless times when February turns to spring, “Spring has sprung.” While it might sound outdated, it very much is a reminder that longer days are here, and it’s time to move those clocks forward.
Speaking of daylight savings time, we move our clocks forward, lose an hour, and are forced into longer days. It’s a huge transition from winter to spring, especially for those experiencing seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In this blog, we’ll discuss methods to manage the rollercoaster of emotions (like increased anxiety, mood swings, energy shifts) that comes when the seasons begin to shift.
Recognizing Your Emotions
Each person is born with a biological clock, which is also referred to as circadian rhythm. In the fall and winter months, when there is less sunlight, serotonin levels may decrease. As the days lengthen in spring and summer, serotonin levels generally increase. It’s important to recognize the impact of sunlight to better manage emotions or wonder why all of a sudden you feel pressure to be productive.
For example, when months are cold and rainy, we tend to hibernate inside. Conversely, when the sun is out and it’s warm and sunny, people often feel the need to get out and get fresh air. It’s almost as if there is an elephant in the room that says we need to get out and be social and be productive since the sun is out. That can be a daunting task when you have spent months inside contentedly enjoying a warm cup of tea, watching a movie alone, or cozying up to a good book.
There is an unspoken myth that just because it’s now spring, people must be happy, snap out of their seasonal depression, and get a “kick start on spring cleaning.” This couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, this expectation and pressure to enjoy the weather change can almost create more anxiety and an increased feeling of being overwhelmed and create a lack of self-worth. All of which to say, this is all normal to feel.
Practical Strategies for Changing Seasons
While a groundhog shouldn’t dictate your mood, Phil does offer a good reminder to ground yourself and connect with nature before the shift in seasons. Walking in your neighborhood is a great way to do this and move your body. Another option is to meet with a friend and take a stroll in a local park.
Let’s face it, sometimes the weather doesn’t always cooperate for a daily walk, so an alternative is to practice deep breathing meditation. The great thing about this method is that it can be done practically anywhere! No matter which method you choose to ground yourself, remember to set realistic expectations. The quickest way to burnout is to overcommit yourself. And don’t forget to prioritize self-care, which can look different for everyone. For example, for some, self-care means following a skincare routine morning and night. For others, it can look like staying consistent with a sleep schedule. Both of which are important, but figure out what is important to you and what self-love means.
Establishing a consistent routine is a great strategy to combat the blues of the changing season. It could be as simple as going to sleep around the same time every day or setting a goal to wake up the first time your alarm rings. Another great idea to follow a routine is to schedule days to eat out versus cooking at home. Not only does this establish a routine, but it also makes a conscious effort to be more aware of the food you’re consuming. The importance of nutrition for emotional health cannot be overstated. When you mix in a little physical activity with nutrition, you get a recipe for a healthy you, no matter the season.
Managing social interactions
We’ve covered some good self-care tips, but what about dealing with social situations? Learning how to say no is a great way to establish social boundaries. There are times when our social battery is full and that’s okay too. But there are times when we need to get out of our bubble of isolation to fill that battery. Recognizing and learning the signs of the two are important. Because people will become more selective with their time, it makes for more meaningful interactions and connections.
Embrace flexibility and self-compassion
It’s natural to experience emotional shifts with the seasons. Remember, many people feel this way. While highs and lows are expected, persistent low moods aren’t. Embrace self-forgiveness and cultivate gratitude. Use each season as an opportunity for growth and strive to become a better version of yourself. Process your emotions through journaling to get your feelings out on paper and to also look back in a year to see how far you’ve come.
Seek support
Navigating seasonal mood changes can be challenging, and it’s crucial to remember that seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you’re struggling, consider connecting with a therapist, exploring local support groups, or utilizing online mental health resources. Additionally, fostering open communication with trusted friends and family can provide invaluable support and understanding during these times. Sharing your experiences can lessen feelings of isolation and create a stronger network of care.
Embracing Resilience in Seasonal Change
The shifting tides of spring’s emotions are a widely felt phenomenon, a testament to our shared humanity. To navigate these changes, remember the power of consistent routines, the importance of mindful social connections, and the strength found in seeking professional support when needed. Embrace self-compassion, cultivate gratitude, and allow each day to be a step towards personal growth. As we embrace the vibrancy of spring, let’s remember that even amidst change, we have the capacity for resilience and joy. We invite you to share your own reflections and strategies in the comments below!