Isn’t it funny how a simple change in weather can alter our mood. And isn’t it funny how we relate and describe our types of moods, emotions and situations to the weather.
Moods can brighten and darken, futures can be under a cloud and relationships can be stormy.
And when we’re feeling sick we say ‘’we’re under the weather.’’
How often do you observe not only yourself but people around you to be in ‘brighter’ moods when the sun is out?
Nearly always is the answer!
Maybe it’s due to the fact you can fit 1.3 million earths in the sun.
1.3 million!!!
That’s just mind boggling. The sun is so bloody huge it’s hard to comprehend. No wonder it has such a powerful impact on us.
And when our moods are altered it inevitably affects our behaviour.
When it’s sunny people are more generous. They are happier, more inclined to give more, share, be more helpful to each other, socialise and be merry. It’s simply easier to jump out of bed in the morning.
It’s almost like there’s an injection of energy and positivity simply because the sun is shining.
We are more inclined to exercise too when the sun is out. Makes sense, better mood, more energy and positive vibes to throw into a good sweat sesh. It’s the perfect scenario.
However what about when it’s pouring with rain and freezing. Ever heard the term – it’s ‘miserable’ outside. If you link this back to how it affects your mood then it spells trouble for all of us.
Everyone’s walking around grumpy, tired, unmotivated, cooped up inside with the weight of the world on their shoulders. Exercise usually falls by the waist side too on days like these.
This is where the link between the weather and your mood needs to stop in my opinion.
As nice as it is to wake up to a glorious sunny day, the weather doesn’t have to impact your mood. It’s merely a conscious shift in mindset and a choice to adapt when you need to.
Just because it’s a ‘horrible day’ weather wise shouldn’t translate to you having a horrible day. Certainly shouldn’t mean you skip your usual exercise routine either. That’s the easy way out and a recipe for failure.
However with the weather being so fickle and unpredictable, it can cause chaos amongst those who haven’t got proper focus and attention on what it is they’re wanting to achieve.
In some people’s minds it’s a valid excuse for not exercising or skipping a day…. Or two, or three.
It definitely sorts out the motivated from the unmotivated that’s for sure. It also paints a picture of who really values their health and well-being and who doesn’t. The ones that make progress vs the ones that make complaints about a lack of progress. The doers versus the whingers. The focused vs the complainers.
You get my point.
Now, it has been proven that if you spend 30 minutes or more in the sun then yes there is a small increase in energy which affects mood which in turn affects your behaviour. However when you wake up on a sunny morning you haven’t exposed yourself to the sun yet so your mood is essentially driven by your mind.
This says to me that it’s more psychological than actual fact. Maybe it’s the anticipation of being able to go outside and enjoy it that’s stimulating.
Of course we all love a beautiful sunny day with a light breeze. But to be honest I also like a cloudy day listening to the rain hit the roof.
Either way if you’re focused enough on what’s important to you, outside influences like the weather won’t be anything to worry about.
If you’re one of those peeps that’s easily influenced by the unpredictable nature of the weather then you’re in for one hell of a roller coaster.
Rain, hail or shine just adapt, don’t stop!
Otherwise you’ll be miserable – like a cold windy, rainy day.
Speaking of which, there’s certainly been a noticeable shift in the weather this week.
Just make sure it’s not translating into a negative mood shift and a loss of focus too.
‘’If you have a body, we can help you’’
Ben
Infinite Fitness Peninsula
