Spring is making its presence known in our area! Leaves are appearing on trees which have been bare for months. Flowering bulbs are emerging from underground. The temperature feels wonderful, and there is plenty of daylight to enjoy. And, the birds are singing! It might as well be a Disney movie! 

So, what is this scientific marvel we know as spring?  

A big part of spring’s appeal lies in the experience of increased sunlight, which boosts mood-enhancing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, and encourages social interactions and new beginnings. In fact, plants and trees respond to light cues indicating that they know spring has arrived. Like humans, plants have circadian rhythms.  

Let’s take a deeper dive into the science behind spring’s allure: 

Spring and New Beginnings 

Spring is a time of rebirth and growth in nature, with plants emerging from their long winter’s nap and animals emerging from hibernation. Spring can bring about feelings of hope, anticipation and a longing for fresh starts. And, the warmer weather and longer days encourage people to spend more time outdoors, leading to increased social interactions and opportunities for connection. Some studies suggest that people may experience an increase in romantic attraction during spring due to more daylight hours and warmer weather, which can boost hormone levels. Cue the romantic music! 

The Science of Spring in Nature 

Spring flowers such as tulips, hyacinths and daffodils grow from bulbs. Bulbs are miniature plants and contain food storage systems to provide everything the plant needs to survive through the winter. When the bulb receives signals that spring has arrived, it is able to produce roots, stems, leaves and flowers. Temperature is what causes spring bulbs to bloom.  

What Causes the Smell of Freshly Cut Grass?

While walking through the neighborhood, it’s always a pleasure to enjoy the smell of freshly cut grass. It’s such a distinctive smell, and I have to admit I was a little bummed to find out the cause of the scent. It is actually a “distress signal” from the plant, a complex mixture of chemicals called green leaf volatiles (GLVs) released when the grass is damaged or cut. Poor grass…but you sure do smell good! GLVs play a role in plant communication and defense against herbivores (plant-eating insects). The release of GLVs can act as a warning signal to other plants and animals, potentially attracting predators of herbivores or alerting nearby plants to prepare for defense. Pretty fascinating.

Birds Return from Their Winter Vacations and Baby Animals Greet the World in Spring 

There’s no better indicator of spring than birds chirping. Many animals migrate south during the winter, then head north as temperatures rise outside. This northward migration can start in mid-February and last into June, which means that throughout the spring, you can expect to see a major increase in birds. In 2017, a UK study found that the more birds people could see in their neighborhoods, the better their mental health.

Many animals reproduce in the spring, when temperatures increase and food is in abundance. Baby ducklings, squirrels, bunnies and other sweet creatures appear in spring. Who doesn’t feel happier when they see baby animals frolicking outside their window?

Improved Sleep 

Studies show that light exposure during the day is related to better sleep quality which, in turn, affects mood and overall health – one of the best reasons to love spring! 

And, if that were not enough…here are a few more reasons that spring might just be the best season: 

1. There is more daylight. Following the spring equinox, days begin lasting longer and nights get shorter. Daylight saving time gives you even more light hours to get things done. 
2. It’s easier to find fresh, tasty produce. Many vegetables and some fruits are harvested in the spring. This is the season to get your fresh produce. Getting more fruits and vegetables into your diet isn’t just good for the body…it’s good for the soul. 
3. You can move your exercise routine outdoors. While exercise is important no matter what the season, research shows that working out can be more beneficial if you do it outside. People who work out in the fresh air tend to say they enjoy the experience more and would be likely to repeat it, suggesting that using nature as your gym might help you stick with your exercise routine. 
4. You can absorb more vitamin D. Sunlight triggers your body to produce vitamin D, which keeps your bones strong. It’s harder to get enough sun exposure naturally to maintain healthy vitamin D levels during the winter. People only need 10 minutes outside with a quarter of their bodies exposed to the spring sunshine to get an adequate daily dose of vitamin D.