Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation. As the cold winter months give way to warmer temperatures, longer days and more of that beautiful sun, the world around us comes to life with blooming flowers, buzzing bees and chirping birds. Although here in the Colorado Rockies, we understand that springtime doesn’t necessarily mean instant, warm lovely weather. We will still have plenty of winter-like days, but the sprinkling here and there of those beautiful, long sunny days always lifts my spirits.
Sometimes, I don’t even realize how flat and indifferent I have become after a long and cold winter until those few really warm days when I get a chance to be out in the sun and then also take note of how late it is staying light outside. It completely puts a spring in my step. See what I just did there?
I’ve always been in the small percentage of people who love winter. I love snow and I love to “settle down to a long winter’s nap,” like the “Night Before Christmas” song goes. But, maybe this year I suffered a bit from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? I never have before, but I truly don’t remember relishing spring weather this much. So, taking a look at SAD, symptoms include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Well, I probably checked a few of those boxes this winter, but definitely not all. And it is believed to be related to the shorter daylight hours during the fall and winter months, which can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm and affect the production of hormones such as melatonin and serotonin which regulate mood and sleep. I can definitely understand that! Studies do show that those who are affected get better by late spring/summer, so whether or not I suffered from this condition over the winter or not, I’m already better with even the hint of spring, so I’ll just be grateful it’s here and move on for now. Apparently, I didn’t even know I was in the winter doldrums until last week. Snort.
I don’t know about you, but spring just beckons me to wander outside—even just gaze outside. The warmth of the sun on my skin is incredibly invigorating, and the fresh air seems to clear my mind and boost my energy. That boost seems to encourage me to want to start clearing out clutter and get organized. It makes me want to “spring clean.” So that’s really a thing, huh?!
Here’s a little snippet I read off the internet about that: “Spring cleaning is a great way to renew your spirit and energize your soul. It can help you feel more in control of your life, and it can create a sense of calm and peace in your home. It’s also a great way to let go of old things and make space for new opportunities and experiences.”
I guess, overall, the point for me is the general motivational aspect I have been feeling so far this season. And obviously that’s a theme I’ve been missing for decades now. It’s been shown that, whether you’re going for a hike, playing sports, gardening, or just lounging in the sun, the warmth of spring can help you feel more alive. I guess that’s where I am. Go me.
