It tries so hard. Spring gives us warmth, dresses us in bright, delicate colors, smells fresh and has a much sunnier disposition than its frosty predecessor. Nevertheless, we unabashedly meet it with a constant yawn ... But where does it come from? Why aren't we full of energy and in a good mood now that the dark, cold days are over, life is reawakening and inviting us outside?

People used to be convinced that spring fatigue was basically a deficiency symptom because we didn't eat enough fruit and vegetables in winter. In any case, it is advisable to take the right nutrients to reduce tiredness. However, research now suggests that the imbalance of two hormones makes us tired, specifically the "sleep hormone" melatonin and the "happiness hormone" serotonin.

Serotonin is produced under the influence of light and is responsible for activating the body and for a good mood. Melatonin ensures a good restful sleep at night. In spring, these two neurobiologically active components start to falter and the body needs around two to four weeks to restore a new balance. Until then, we are particularly tired, have circulatory problems and suffer from headaches.

Tips against spring fatigue

• Soak up the sun whenever possible, preferably 20 minutes a day. Expose your face, décolleté and arms to direct sunlight. Do not wear sunglasses, as light must also be absorbed via the retina in order to produce serotonin. Incidentally, you can benefit from daylight even on an overcast day.
• Alternating showers and visits to the sauna train the blood vessels.
• Plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables support the metabolic processes.
• Drinking enough (approx. 1.5 to 2 liters) is also good.
• Exercise gives you a boost! Endurance sports or walks outdoors are best.
• Don't take an afternoon nap, as this is when the body uses up serotonin and produces melatonin.
• Expose yourself to as little artificial light as possible after sunset.
• Do not take smartphones and tablets to bed.

Caution: If you experience persistent tiredness and moodiness for more than three weeks, you should see a doctor. There may be other underlying causes, such as thyroid dysfunction or depression.

Delicious energy balls

Ingredients:

75 g dried dates
50 g rolled oats
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp sesame seeds
2 tbsp coconut shreds
50 g almond kernels with skin
½ orange

Preparation: Squeeze the orange. Mix the rolled oats with 2 tbsp orange juice in a bowl. Halve the dates and finely chop with the almonds in a food processor. Pour in 1 tbsp orange juice. Add the honey and mix well with the oats. Roast the sesame seeds and grated coconut separately in a pan without oil until golden brown. Then leave to cool slightly. Shape the date and almond mixture into balls about 2 cm in size, roll half in the sesame seeds and the other half in the coconut flakes. Line a baking tray with baking paper and spread the balls evenly on it. Leave to dry for at least an hour.