Health, Beauty and Lifestyle with Denise McNamara

Like a breath of fresh air, springtime marks the arrival of warmer days, bursts of colour, and new beginnings. Nature is waking up all around us, with daffodils, snowdrops and bluebells appearing after the long winter months. The trees begin to bloom and the birds are building their nests in a frenzy of energy, reflects Galway psychotherapist Bernadette Finn.

“A season of transformation, spring’s natural rhythm reminds us that change is inevitable and there is always potential for growth. Springtime is often associated with symbolism and carries with it deep spiritual meanings, signifying a fresh start, the opportunity to begin again, and a sense of renewal and resilience,” she states.

“Nature can mirror our personal journey of renewal on a physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual level. Just as flowers push through the frozen ground, we too, even when life may feel unbearable, have the potential for renewal and growth.”

Easter has long been a symbol of hope coinciding with spring – a powerful symbol of renewal, resilience, and inner transformation that can strengthen our spirit to navigate modern life.

In his book, Benedictus, the poet and philosopher John O Donohue, writes about how beginnings can be tricky: “There is something deep in us that conspires to remain within safe boundaries, to stay the same”. The seasons and our mental health are intricately linked.

While Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is usually associated with winter blues, the reality for some individuals is they actually experience “reverse SAD” in spring.

“Adapting to losing an hour of sleep, and the increased daylight hours, can start to mess with our circadian rhythms, our body’s internal clock. Causing us to become a bit disoriented and moody, the transition to spring can trigger waves of anxiety or a nagging sense of unease as it can literally feel like coming out of hibernation mode overnight.”

Dr Tony Humpreys described it as the “creative and intelligent vibrancy of our lives” becoming dormant and going into hibernation and not reawakening in springtime.

Bernadette says too of us are “suffering in quiet desperation and isolation, having lost trust in a world fuelled by wars, conflicts, political divisions, ideology, and religious extremism”

“The number of people today who feel unable to cope due to mental and emotional difficulties is increasing. Many are suffering in isolation having lost touch with their sense of belonging and meaning in the world. For many others their identity and defining qualities have become focused on achievement, success, media trends, sex and drugs,” she believes.

Pictured: Psychotherapist Bernadette Finn: “Life is about balance so embrace the joy and smile.”