Spring fatigue

Spring fatigue is actually a biological process of the body adapting to new conditions. It’s not just about “laziness”, but about serious hormonal shifts in your body.

It is a very common phenomenon that occurs during the transition from winter to spring. Although it is not a disease, it can significantly affect your well-being.

🌱 What happens in the body?

In winter, the body works slower (less light, less movement), and in spring it has to “switch”:

• hormone levels change (more serotonin, less melatonin)

• blood pressure adjusts (often drops → feeling sleepy)

• metabolism speeds up

• you may be lacking vitamins (especially vitamin D and vitamin C)

😴 Typical symptoms

• fatigue and lack of energy

• daytime sleepiness

• poor concentration

• irritability

• headaches or dizziness

Hormonal “fight” (Serotonin vs. Melatonin)

In winter, the body produces more melatonin (the sleep hormone) because there is more darkness. In spring, as the days get longer, the body starts to produce serotonin (the hormone of happiness and activity) at an accelerated rate.

• Problem: This transition doesn’t happen overnight. The body is in a kind of hormonal imbalance for a few weeks, which leaves us completely exhausted.

Vasodilation and blood pressure

When the weather warms up, our blood vessels dilate (vasodilation) in order to cool the body.

• Consequence: Blood pressure drops. If you already have naturally low blood pressure, you may feel like you’ve been “run over by a tank” in spring, and you may also feel dizzy.

Strategy for overcoming spring fatigue:

• Light first thing in the morning: As soon as you get up, open the blinds or step out onto the balcony. The bright morning light stops the production of melatonin and tells the brain: “It’s time for serotonin!” Light helps regulate hormones and improves energy.

• Kneipp (alternating shower): It’s not the most pleasant, but it works wonders. Alternate between hot and cold water (finish with cold). This “trains” your veins to adapt faster to temperature changes and raises blood pressure.

A balanced diet – more fresh vegetables and fruits, enough fluids.

• Seasonal food – bitters: Nature knows what we need. Dandelions start to grow in spring. The bitters in dandelions and chicory stimulate the liver, which needs to cleanse the body of toxins after winter.

• Exercise outdoors (even if you are tired): You don’t have to run a marathon. Even a 20-minute walk in daylight will help your body balance hormones faster.

• Quality sleep – Try to go to bed at the same time.

• Gradual adaptation – Don’t expect to be in “top shape” right away – the body needs time.

• Vitamins and minerals – If necessary, a supplement can help (after consultation).

Did you know?

Spring fatigue usually lasts from 2 to 4 weeks. If fatigue lasts longer (more than a month) and is very intense, it is worth checking your iron or vitamin D levels, as reserves are often completely depleted after winter.