Spring fever – is it real? Find out April 22, Earth Day in LLGC, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Well, there’s no fever, and you won’t be spending time in bed and you don’t have to take medicine for it, but is there really “spring fever?”
The vernal equinox was in the third week of March, and since that time we have more hours of daylight than darkness. This leads to production of less melatonin levels, which is a compound that regulates sleep. Lower melatonin means more awake time. There are also regions in the brain that are affected by other neurotransmitters like serotonin and can lead to mood changes. Have you noticed yourself having a bit more light-hearted feelings lately? Could be the hormones talking.
Speaking of light, you also go outside more, and due to more direct sunlight are able to acquire some natural vitamin D, which can also affect your emotional and physical health.
Feeling ready to jump up and do something? The temperature rising also has an effect on your mood. It is quite noticeable in the increased activity of animals outside; it is not odd to begin seeing birds building nests and many animals are busy fashioning their homes.
How about your diet? Most people find the comfort food of winter doesn’t cut it come spring. Fruits and veggies are the in food, and yes, some of that excess winter weight starts to slowly melt away.
So embrace the euphoric feelings of spring because the hot, humid days of summer are not that far off. Come out and enjoy the Earth Day celebration on campus on April 22 in the Gallagher Center from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.