Spring is here and so is spring fever. Fatigue, lack of energy, poor circulation and problems focusing can happen to the best of us. This is especially true for women and older people. The cause remains unknown, but it is believed that our hormones play an important role.
During the winter, the weather is mostly dark and dreary. With this in mind, our serotonin levels (the happiness hormone) decrease since it depends on the sunlight. In turn, melatonin (the sleep hormone) increases making you feel sluggish. To further complicate the issue, temperatures fluctuate during the winter. With the rise in temperatures in spring, blood vessels dilate. This causes your blood pressure to drop making you feel more tired. These 6 tips to surviving spring fever will help you to a spring awakening.
1. Stock Up on Important Vitamins
When it’s cold, our bodies burn up vitamins and minerals. In addition, our intake of fat and sugar is higher. This is not good for your metabolism or your hormonal balance. With the incoming of spring, it’s the right time to refill those vitamins. Here’s what you need to get you back on track:
- Vitamin B1 supports energy production. Sunflower seeds, wheat germs and pork are rich with this vitamin. It can help combat chronic fatigue and lack of concentration.
- Vitamin B12 helps protect the cardiovascular system and the formation of blood. Fish, meat and milk products are good sources of B12.
- Vitamin C relieves fatigue and strengthens the immune system. To increase your vitamin C intake, try citrus fruits, cauliflower, asparagus and parsley.
- Vitamin E stimulates muscle metabolism and strengthens the immune system.
2. Eat Small Meals
Eating large and heavy meals are hard work for the body. For a steady flow of energy, it’s better to eat small meals throughout the day. These small meals are easier for the body to digest without a big strain on your body. Try eating some of the foods in tip #1 to stock up on vitamins. See our tips on how to stop overeating.
3. Drink Plenty of Fluids
Many times, when you feel tired or hungry, it’s because you haven’t had enough to drink. Try to drink at least two liters of water a day. You can substitute water for unsweetened tea. For an extra boost of energy, drink a glass of sparkling water with a splash of fresh lemon. Drinking it right after getting out of bed can jumpstart your morning. The lemon delivers vitamin C and the bubbly water kicks in on an empty stomach.
4. Exercise in the Morning
Exercising in the morning awakens your mind and body. But there’s no need to go overboard. While laying down, cycle in the air with your legs. Then swing out of bed, stretch your limbs and jump into the day. This will give you a boost of energy you need to start the day.
5. Take Hot/Cold Showers & Sauna Sessions
Kick start your circulatory system with hot and cold showers. Take a one minute hot shower and a one minute cold shower always ending the a cold downpour. This will wake you up and strengthen the connective tissue in your skin. In addition, stewing in a sauna will help you sweat out energy draining waste products. At the same time, it ensures a fresh and bright complexion.
6. Keep Moving
Do a lot of activity outside to get your circulation going. Walk or jog around the neighborhood or go to the park. The sun’s UV rays will crank up the production of the “happiness hormone” serotonin. You’ll instantly feel better and start stocking up on serotonin for winter.
