By Sumaiya Farheen, April 2024.
Seasonal change is a natural phenomenon that not only transforms the world around us but also has a profound impact on our bodies.
From changes in mood to alterations in sleep patterns, our bodies respond in various ways to the evolving environment. But have you ever stopped to wonder how these changes in nature affect your body?
Pain
Recent studies have found that there is a correlation between pain, low temperatures, high humidity, and high pressure. For example, cold weather contribute to muscles, ligaments and joints feeling stiffer and more painful, as you are more likely to be inactive.
Therefore, it is important to remain active during all weathers so your body can learn to adapt to the different temperatures and pressures as the seasons change.
Immune System Boost
Seasonal change can significantly influence our immune system. One key factor is sunlight exposure, which affects our vitamin D levels. During summer, increased sunlight leads to higher vitamin D production, strengthening our immune system.
In contrast, winter’s reduced sunlight can weaken our immune response, making us more susceptible to infections. Additionally, colder temperatures in winter can slow down our immune response, increasing the likelihood of illnesses like colds and flu.
Mood Swing
Reduced sunlight exposure is thought to trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that occurs during fall and winter, linking closely with our mood. Light influences the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood.
Reduced sunlight can lead to lower serotonin levels, contributing to feelings of depression. Low levels of vitamin D, associated with depression, are attributed to its role in mood regulation, being produced in response to sunlight.
Sleep
Seasonal change can also impact our sleep patterns. Environmental changes, including seasonal variations in light and temperature, influence our internal biological clock, or circadian rhythm. During summer, longer days and increased light exposure can lead to delayed sleep onset and shorter sleep duration.
In contrast, winter’s shorter days and decreased light exposure can result in longer sleep duration and daytime sleepiness. Additionally, temperature changes associated with seasonal transitions can disrupt sleep patterns.
Seasonal change is not just a shift in weather, it’s a transformation that affects our bodies on multiple levels. Understanding these effects can help us adapt and maintain our health and well-being throughout the year.
By being mindful of our immune system, mood, and sleep patterns, we can take proactive steps to support our bodies during seasonal transitions. So, as the seasons change, let’s tune into our bodies and embrace the rhythm of nature.
We offer valuable support in managing seasonal changes. Through massage, osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) and physiotherapy, we can enhance circulation, lymphatic drainage, and reduce muscle tension, strengthening the immune system and improving overall health.
We can also help you with re-regulating the nervous system, potentially alleviating symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and enhancing your mood. By addressing musculoskeletal issues and promoting relaxation, massage, osteopathy and physiotherapy can improve sleep patterns, aiding in maintaining health and wellness.