Sleep, Stress & Springtime: How to Shake Off the Winter Slump

Ahhh, spring! The days are longer, the flowers are blooming, and yet… you’re still feeling like you need a nap by noon. What gives? If you’ve been dragging despite the extra sunshine, your sleep and stress levels might be to blame. And let’s be real—if you're over 40, getting a solid night’s sleep can feel like winning the lottery. Between hormones, daily stressors, and the never-ending mental to-do list, your body might be stuck in survival mode instead of deep sleep mode.

Spring is the perfect time to hit the refresh button, not just on your closet but on your stress and sleep habits, too. First, let’s talk cortisol—your stress hormone. When it’s constantly high (thanks to deadlines, family drama, or just being a woman in today’s world), it messes with melatonin, your sleep hormone. The result? Tossing, turning, and waking up more exhausted than when you went to bed. The fix? More time outside. Natural light helps regulate your circadian rhythm, meaning you’ll sleep better at night and have more energy during the day. Plus, spending time in nature is a stress-buster, so take advantage of those springtime walks!

Another sneaky culprit? Too much screen time before bed. I know, I know—scrolling through TikTok or binge-watching your favorite show feels like relaxation, but that blue light is telling your brain, “Stay awake!” Swap your phone for a book, some light stretching, or even journaling to help your mind unwind. And if you’re waking up at 3 AM, wide-eyed and annoyed? Try a magnesium-rich bedtime snack like almonds or dark chocolate (yes, chocolate—you're welcome).

If you’re looking for more ways to support your body, stress less, and sleep better, my upcoming webinar might be for you! We’ll be diving into The Truth About Osteoporosis & Exercise: What Works, What Doesn’t, and How to Get Started—because, yes, your workouts play a huge role in stress management, too. Join me the week of April 14 and let’s get you feeling strong, well-rested, and ready to enjoy this beautiful season! Grab your spot now!