The change of season is a delicate period for the body, as it can be a source of many disturbances. The transition from cold to warm and vice versa, as well as the change in light conditions, is a source of stress for the body. For some, this leads to immune system deficiencies, for others to depression, and in some cases to both.
These little aches and pains can quickly get worse, and cause us to feel uncomfortable in our day-to-day activities. That’s why it’s so important to anticipate the change of seasons.
How can we prepare our bodies for the changing seasons?
Zoom in on the best practices to adopt:
How does the change of season affect the body?
The effects of the change of season on the body can manifest themselves in different ways from one person to another. Here are the most common signs:
Dérèglement de l’horloge interne
Changement de saison rime souvent avec variation de lumière car le soleil se couche à une heure différente. Cela bouleversera le fonctionnement normal de l’horloge interne du corps et peut entraîner entre autres, des insomnies et de la fatigue.
Dysregulation of the biological clock
The change of season often means a change in light, as the sun sets at a different time. This disrupts the normal functioning of the biological clock and can lead to insomnia and fatigue, among other things.
Seasonal fatigue
Seasonal fatigue is a feeling of weariness and fatigue for no apparent reason. It is actually caused by the change in ambient temperature and the lengthening or shortening of the hours, depending on the season. This creates a confusion that rubs off on the body and exhausts it considerably.
Hair loss
Confusion caused by changes in temperature and light also affects hormones, in both men and women. The most common symptom is hair loss. If you find that your hair falls out more than usual when you comb it, and for no reason in the middle of the year, the change of season can probably be the cause.
What are the best ways to cope with the season’s change?
The aches and pains caused by the change of seasons can be more or less disabling, depending on the sensitivity of each individual. However, regaining vitality can be as simple as following a few good practices:
Cleaning up
It may seem a little odd, but knowing that a healthy, hygienic environment is the key to good health, it makes perfect sense to clean your home. It’s highly advisable to spring clean every new season. Make sure all surfaces are disinfected, dust removed and all linens changed. Don’t hesitate to purify the interior of your home with essential oils by spraying an air freshener in the rooms, for instance.
Rest at a steady pace
Regular rest is necessary to regulate your biological clock, so getting a good night’s sleep is essential. Please don’t vary your bedtime and wake-up time, even on days off, so as not to disturb your body too much. As the days go by, you’ll get into the habit of doing so, and this will help to cure your sleep disorders.
Work out
Change of season or not, sport is always good for your health. If possible, it’s a good idea to exercise outdoors, to take advantage of the fresh air and the vitamin D provided by the sun. Walking, for example, is a particularly good way to get back into shape after a long period of inactivity. You can then pick up the pace by jogging.
Eating well
A healthy diet is the main source of the vitamins and nutrients the body needs to cope with the various seasonal changes. That’s why it’s important to eliminate unhealthy fats and focus on seasonal fruits and vegetables, which are known to have a positive effect on the immune system. You can eat them raw in the form of salads or juices to make the most of their nutrients.
Staying well hydrated
Hydration is also a real ally in keeping your body in tip-top shape. Health experts recommend drinking a liter and a half of water a day, and it’s essential to stick to this advice. Particularly in summer, hydration helps eliminate toxins, and when combined with a balanced diet, it can do wonders for seasonal fatigue.