“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Thou art more lovely and more temperate.” – William Shakespeare
The changing of seasons can do more than welcome beautiful green buds and blooming Jacarandas. It brings shifts in our moods, energy levels, and overall well-being. The warmth outside brings a type of warmth in our bodies – a noticeable spark of joy. It is scientifically proven that a link exists between seasonal patterns and mental health. For many students, the months between May and August are dark and difficult, with some even experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD (yes, the irony). But the spring and summer months tend to lift spirits and spark motivation. When we understand these patterns, we can intentionally use the brighter seasons to boost our physical and mental health.
One of the biggest characters in this cycle is the sun. Vitamin D, often called the sunlight vitamin, is produced in our bodies when we are exposed to sunlight. We photosynthesise, releasing our main product: happiness. Studies have also shown that vitamin D deficiencies are linked to higher rates of depression and fatigue. During winter, the shorter days and longer nights reduce our exposure to this crucial vitamin, which lowers the serotonin levels in our bodies. This disrupts our circadian rhythm, the internal clock that regulates our sleep and energy levels. When September hits, the days lengthen and the sun returns, and so do our dopamine levels!
By spending more time in the great outdoors, whether it is walking, running, gardening, or simply basking in the sun, we can easily increase our vitamin D levels. Our sports campus, LC de Villiers, is the perfect place to start, with its beautiful routes and happy faces all around you. This boosts our moods, our immune systems, and our bone health
Spring and summer also allow us to reset our routines. Just as nature is patient and blooms after a period of rest, we too can treat the arrival of these months as a new chapter. Many students tend to begin new habits when their environment supports it. Brighter and lighter mornings make it easier to attend those 07:30 classes, longer and warmer evenings allow for social gatherings and outdoor festivities. Fresh seasonal produce like berries and avocados fuel us for these fun activities. It is also the perfect time for self-care, fitness, and creative endeavours we did not have the energy for during winter.
On a spiritual and psychological level, spring has always been tied to the idea of renewal and new life – a symbolic opportunity to shed our old selves and refresh our goals and mindset. By aligning with these seasonal energies, we can not only enhance our productivity but also our sense of joy and contentment.
Ultimately, the seasons remind us that life moves in phases and cycles. The winter months are periods that are filled with time for rest and reflection, but we can always count on spring to come back around. So let’s bid farewell to the seasonal blues and welcome a time for renewal and change!
