Spring 2024Spring in your step? Watch where you are walking

Longer days and warmer weather lead to better physical and mental health, as cold and flu are banished, and lethargy is swapped for energy.

In fact, there is enough evidence out there to suggest spring is a bright season for mental health as dopamine – a neurotransmitter associated with motivation, attention, pleasure, and mood – increases with more exposure to sunlight.

But for some, it isn’t yet the season for an end to the sniffles and whilst undoubtedly it does you good, exercise comes with a health warning.

Careful off the blocks

You should be aiming at 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity every week. That could mean 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

For those with underlying health issues, particularly around the heart, overdoing the exercise at first may lead to two major problems. Firstly, you are more likely to give up, as the thought of intense exertion isn’t always pleasant. And secondly, too much jolt on the joints and organs could have serious consequences, especially if you are carrying excess weight. If you are beginning a regime, try the NHS Couch to 5K, which is safe, achievable for most, and extremely popular.

Rambling is a beneficial pursuit many of us enjoy. Being in the great outdoors boosts our vitamin D levels, improving our immune systems, and can help us become fitter, but try not to cross a tick at springtime! Our misuse of antibiotics has meant that treating infected insect bites is not as effective as it once was.

Reduce the chances of getting Lyme disease by staying on clear paths wherever possible. Developing a serious infection like this remains unlikely and there is advice on how to avoid a bite on the NHS web site. Search for Lyme disease at www.nhs.uk

As I will expand upon in summer, long-sleeved shirts and pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen with at least factor 15 protection, can prevent skin-related conditions, including cancer.

Nothing to sniff at

New research has shown that over 200 viruses can cause colds and flu, so you are not out of the woods when it comes to catching a chill, even in spring. The old adage “coughs and sneezes spread diseases” is so true. Cover your nose and mouth if you are unlucky enough to develop a spring cold; drink plenty of water and get some rest.

Spring is also a time for healthy food choices including fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products. Keeping alcohol levels down remains a must.

Become well sprung

For all that I am advocating precautions, spring is a time for psychological and physical rebirth, a brighter, optimistic opportunity to get out there and exercise the winter blues away. All it takes is a little impetus – from you.

About the writer

Dr Anita Sharma is a published women’s health expert, the founder of the charity Endometriosis Awareness North and the president of the Rochdale Inner Wheel club.

As a GP, she previously coordinated the NHS pessary service for Greater Manchester. She also works closely with Rochdale medics to reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescribing.