After a long, long winter it’s that time of year where the ice thaws and the rain lessens, that’s right it’s spring. Winter comes with amazing opportunities, cozy nights in, lights through the cities and towns. Hot chocolate takes on a symbolic transformation of a great evening in. However, for a lot of people, winter is the downfall of every year. It’s dark and cold, they can’t be as active as they’d like to, and they miss that connection to nature. Moreover, Seasonal Affective Disorder, a form of depression that happens within certain seasons/periods of the year affects up to 1.6 million people in the UK (Franks, 2023).
If you’re feeling particularly blue in certain periods (usually fall through to the beginning of spring), don’t take it lightly, seek help. There may even be some of you dreading spring, and that’s okay. You’re worries are valid, hopefully there’ll be something in this article that can appeal to you. If the physicality of going outside doesn’t tickle your fancy, the themes within religion and literature might be of interest.
Classically spring relates themes of renewal in religion, Christ’s return, Buddhist new year and the spring equinox. It’s the ultimate version of the diet starts Monday through religion and nature. So, why do we love spring? Pancake day, Easter, Mother’s Day, a lot of classic UK loved holidays appear in this time. Which means the kids have something to focus on, and the adults can enjoy the sales. Though, the obvious benefit is being able to go outside a lot more, a light coat and some sun here and there. Spring is tame, and tame means those trails and grassy fields aren’t soaked in mud as much.
The only issue is where to start!
Well luckily the internet can help us there, sites like Visit Britain, National Trust and Visit Wales offer UK wide activities for all types. Want to visit a Victorian mansion that overlooks a beautifully kept garden or take a zipline through the forest. Just get online and get booking, as always, the links to these sites are at the bottom of the page.
However, there will be a lot of us who for certain reasons can’t travel. I’m one and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about, we just need to work a bit harder. Those of us with back gardens should firstly feel privileged. Next, use it! Just a small amount of time in the sun can help the body’s natural rhythm balance out and alleviate symptoms of depression. There will be a lot of ideas online, but some simple ones could be a barbecue, easter egg hunt, swimming pool, even some simple plastic sun loungers.
Facebook marketplace, gumtree and more will sell these second hand at a good price. A lot of the owners will deliver too, maybe for an extra fiver. Supposing you can get around your local area, a coffee in the sun or taking an ice cream on a walk can make summer feel closer too. If you don’t know your area too well, check Facebook groups for your area, get on neighbourhood apps like next door and download trail and hiking apps.
Just opening the blinds and letting in the longer daylight hours to help your mental health might be all we can do. If you’re doing something to better yourself in any way, letting in sun or simply trying to think a positive thought. Be proud of yourself and let this natural renewal help you start afresh.
Written by Georgia James