How to Fight Spring Tiredness

It's a paradox - in the spring the outdoor world begins to bloom, but inside we start to feel dull and tired.

Causes of Spring Fatigue

During the transitional period between winter and spring, many people struggle to adapt to the changing climates. Our body core temperature is lower in winter than it is in the summer. When it gets warmer outside, the body needs a certain amount of time to adapt. During this process, the blood vessels dilate, causing your blood pressure to fall. The result: you start feeling tired and dull. When the temperature outside fluctuates a lot, we can sometimes feel this type of spring fatigue more than once.

In addition, the melatonin concentration in our body (melatonin= the sleep hormone) is very high after a long winter. On the other hand, our stores of serotonin (an activity hormone) are empty.

Who is Affected?

There are certain people who are more sensitive to spring fatigue, averaging about one-third of all people. People with low blood pressure, women, adolescents and weather-sensitive people are particularly susceptible to spring fatigue.

How to Deal

You can support your body's transition in the following ways:

Sports

Physical exertion is good for your blood pressure. In the spring, you should use every opportunity you can to exercise. Take your bike or walk to work instead of driving.

Eat Consciously

A healthy, vitamin-rich diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides our brain with optimal nutrients so it can work to its fullest potential. In addition, pineapple, apples, bananas and grapes contain traces of serotonin, which helps too.

Cold Showers

Even if you hate cold water, taking cold showers or switching in between cold water, encourages good circulation. Incidentally, always stop with cold water if you alternate.

Get Out in the Sunshine

Get out and about! Spending time outdoors helps boost your serotonin levels, making you feel more alert. The more sunlight we get, the better, because your melatonin concentration will decrease as well.

Fresh Air

Fresh air gets your brain going and eliminates fatigue - so get out there and get some!

Nap

If possible, have a power nap after lunch. Your nap should be between 20-30 minutes to avoid producing more melatonin, which will make you feel sleepy again.