Spring is one of my favourite times of the year. Being fortunate to live in a rural setting I enjoy the delight of lambs playing and the fragrance of wild freesias growing on the roadside. Some people thrive during our midyear months in New Zealand, providing a window of opportunity for snow skiing/snowboarding and other winter team sports. Smiles abound for many when they can enjoy all aspects of summer outdoor activities.
Do you have a favourite season, when you feel happier?
A 2023 review conducted by a team of psychologists revealed that seasons may affect how we feel and behave due to changes in exposure to sunlight. Sunlight is essential for human health and well-being. Sun is a natural source of vitamin D - supporting bone health. It lowers blood pressure and raises levels of serotonin hormones - triggered by sunlight that goes in through the eye. We naturally feel happier when the sun is shining. For people who experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), increased sunlight and warmth in spring and summer is a much-needed healing balm. Interestingly, our ‘feel-good' hormones can activate feelings of happiness any time of the year. Hormones are your body's chemical messengers. Once released into the bloodstream, they control everything from how your body functions to how you feel.
The four ‘feel-good' hormones’ are endorphins, dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. We boost the levels of these hormones with lifestyle choices eg nutrition, sleep patterns, exercise, music, meditation, and healthy relationships.
Endorphins and dopamine are neurotransmitters released in the brain. As natural hormones, they can alleviate pain, lower stress, improve mood, and enhance your sense of well-being. Serotonin regulates mood, emotions, and digestion. Laughter, being with nature, sunlight, and practising mindfulness will stimulate serotonin levels.
Oxytocin levels are boosted by exercise, musical activities, physical touch, and giving and receiving compliments.
If the sun is shining today - bask in its healthy benefits. If the sky is cloudy and dull, remember your happiness increases when engaging in activities that stimulate the ‘feel-good' hormone levels.
Trish: Life Coach & Counsellor
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