As we move into spring, the natural world offers us a perfect opportunity to reset, realign, and refresh our health habits. On March 20, the Spring Equinox marks a moment of balance, when day and night are equal. This seasonal shift is more than just a calendar event, it’s a cue for our bodies to reconnect with natural rhythms and reconsider our routines.
One of the most powerful rhythms in our body is the circadian rhythm. It is our internal clock that governs sleep, energy levels and hormone release. Understanding and supporting this rhythm can transform how we feel, both physically and mentally.
Understanding Your Circadian Rhythm 🌞🌙
Your circadian rhythm follows the natural cycle of light and darkness. It influences when you feel awake, alert, or sleepy, and even regulates how efficiently your body recovers and repairs itself.
When we live in alignment with this rhythm - waking with natural light, spending time outdoors, eating at regular times, and resting when it’s dark - we support better sleep, balanced energy, and overall wellbeing.
Modern life often disrupts this natural cycle: late nights, artificial lights, screens, and irregular schedules can pull us off balance. But the Spring Equinox is a perfect reminder to tune into nature's rhythms and restore balance.
Hormones That Guide Your Sleep-Wake Cycle
Our sleep-wake cycle is governed by two key hormones:
- Cortisol — rises in the morning to help us wake and feel energized
- Melatonin — released in the evening, signaling the body to rest
If you've been feeling tired, unable to fall asleep, or unable to sleep through the night, it could be time to look more closely at your cortisol and melatonin.
Natural ways to support your circadian rhythm hormones:
- Spend time in morning sunlight to stimulate cortisol and reset your circadian rhythm
- Be outdoors during the day to receive natural sunlight and vitamin D
- Reduce evening screen exposure, this allows melatonin to rise
- Incorporate gentle movement and stress-releasing practices in your evening routine to wind down before bed
The Spring Equinox: Balance Between Light and Dark
The Spring Equinox occurs on March 20 when day and night are almost equal. This balance in nature mirrors the balance our bodies crave: energy during the day, rest at night.
It’s a natural moment to reset your internal clock, review your habits, and realign with what feels healthy. Ask yourself:
- What habits are currently supporting my wellbeing?
- What habits have been pulling me off-centre?
To find your balance, try these three simple things:
- Rise with the sun: Spend 5–10 minutes letting your eyes adjust to natural light. This stimulates cortisol, gently waking your body before you reach for caffeine.
- Evening wind-down: After sunset, dim lights, reduce screens, or use blue light filters. Consider candles or soft lighting instead of harsh artificial lights to allow melatonin to be produced.
- Create an evening routine: Stretch, breathe deeply, sip on some sleepy tea, take a relaxing tincture, meditate, or journal to prepare for restful sleep.
By syncing your routines with the natural light cycle, you help your hormones, circadian rhythm, and energy levels find their natural flow.