Week of May 10, 2026 – May 16, 2026
by Katie McLaughlin, Environmental Educator
Spring Fever. The increase in energy many of us have as we come out of the winter months. I certainly have noticed that my mood has gotten better in the last month – even with battling spring allergies for the past 2 weeks or so.
While spring fever is not an official medical disease or diagnosis, there are actually biological reasons why many of us feel like we have more energy, or sleep less, or have improved moods.
Our internal clock, which exists in the hypothalamus part of our brain, is monitoring the amount of sunlight that we are exposed to. With the increased sunlight that internal clock sends a signal to the pineal gland to decrease the production of melatonin which boosts energy and makes us less sleepy. Serotonin production is also increased by the additional sunlight, which can cause the natural boost in our moods.
This is normal. It’s a biological function to help us in spring. We aren’t the only things that are affected by the quick change in season! Have you noticed the increase in birds? They are constantly singing and we are in the height of spring migration. Many amphibians like salamanders and frogs have already laid eggs in vernal pools, and perhaps some have hatched already! Other mammals are moving around more and preparing for baby season.
If you are like me and get the winter blues, take a step outside on a sunny day. Listen for the birds and frogs calling, and see all of the creatures moving around again as they too are getting their dose of vitamin D and making more serotonin. Our bodies are doing what they were designed to do – so embrace the warmth of a spring day and enjoy! (Perhaps after you take your allergy medicine).