More energy, new plans, a better mood - in spring we not only enjoy the awakening nature, but also blossom ourselves. The so-called spring fever should be to blame. But what´s up with these? What exactly is spring fever? Why are the first warm rays of sunshine after winter so special for our body and soul? And how can we really savor the spring fever in the garden or on the balcony? We'll tell you!
Spring fever - does it really exist? The answer is: Yes! In spring, many people are more active and lively again, feel like getting to know others or making plans. There are two factors that fuel these positive emotions: more daylight and rising temperatures. And this is where our hormones play a crucial role: in Winter, our body produces more melatonin due to the lack of natural daylight. This sleep hormone controls the day-night rhythm and makes us more tired and listless - many even struggle with winter depression. If, on the other hand, the days get longer again, the organism suppresses melatonin production and releases more serotonin instead. This messenger substance is known as the happiness hormone and can increase our well-being, stimulate memory, reduce anxiety and puts us in a good mood. Another ingresient in this cocktail of happiness is endorphin. Researchers have discovered that our brain releases this hormone more when the sun´s rays hit our skin. This hormone also reduces pain and negative feelings and increases the happiness that overcomes us when we have positive experiences. And vitamin D also has a say in spring. We also form this primarily through the skin in sunlight. If you let the spring sun kiss your hands, face, arms or legs, you can counteract the vitamin D deficiency that many people experience in the dark winter months. The result here too: we feel more awake, more ahile and happier. In addition, vitamin D is important for our bones, immune system and muscles. Also, dopamine and noradrenaline ensure an inner spirit of optimism and the urge to shed unnecessary ballast. But nature itself also encourages us to go through life more positively and easily or to reinvent ourselves. It lures us outside with fragrant flowers, soothing greenery and the first fresh fruits and vegetables. in addition, migratory birds return from their wintering grounds and sing their songs early in the morning. The soundtrack of spring fills the air.
And what is the best way to enjoy the spring fever? We have collected tips for you:
Lace up your hiking boots: Hiking is booming - and now is the best time for it. We confidently leave the onion kook and the thick winter boots in the closet and set off with much lighter equipment. By the way: It doesn't alway have to be the Alps - there is also a lot to discover in the neighborhood. Local tourism association or municipalities will be happy to provide information about hiking trails in the region.
Yoga outdoors: A sun salutation actually in the sun? That sounds wonderful, doesn´t it ? If the weather is suitable, you can now move your yoga session outside and not only recharge your batteries, but also lots of vitamin D.
Picnic with your best friend: A picnic blanket, a snack, drinks and a nice companion - that´s all you need. If you want, you can combine the picnic with a short wlak or hike. Not only does the food taste even better afterwards, but you can also reach more remote places that belong entirely to both of you.
Discover nature: Do you actually know everything that sprouts and thrives in spring? Every flower, every herb? No? Then see spring as an invitation to get more involves with nature. Go and determine the flowers around you, research which bird is perched above you in the branches or pick edible herbs and use them to spice up your salad.
Barbecue session with friends: Grilling. This word makes the hearts of many hobby grill masters and meat lovers beat faster. And the first barbecue session with friends is really something special. Get some inspiration for fresh salads or sauces, get involved with new tastes or give the party a special motto.
Relax in the hammock: Literally let your soul dangle - this works best with a hammock in our own garden. Either you listen to the soundtrack of nature and treat youself to a break from electronic devices, or you put together a spring playlist and let it inspire you. Bookworms make themselves comfortable with a book in the hammock, swee tooth take the coffee party outside. And if you can call a couple´s hammock your own, beckon the person you love - cuddling in the spring sun, that´s always possible!