2 minute read
Spring Has Sprung: The Onset of Spring Fever
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By Michael Copeland, Discovery Counseling Center
Until the recent Corona Virus outbreak, the most severe spring time ailment along the I-680 corridor was a bad case of Spring Fever. My family and I traditionally show signs of this illness that pales in comparison to COVID – 19, but it is frightening none the less. Apparently, we’re not the only family in the area historically afflicted with an atmospherically transmitted disease (“ATD”), and this year it has the potential to turn into an outbreak that has The Center for Disease Control (CDC) concerned. My exhaustive research (I made it up) indicates this current strain will probably last until school gets out for the summer in May. Symptoms include: lack of concentration, hyperactivity, sleep aversion, claustrophobia and the giggles. So far, the only known antidote is fresh air, sunshine, loud music, an adult beverage (if you’re an adult) and fun.
Anyone remotely familiar with Spring Fever knows that flowers often have a soothing/calming effect on the worst of cases. Exhaustive research (made it up again) has confirmed that flowers can subliminally increase many human’s energy levels and supplement lacking pep and vigor. Apparently exposure to annuals, perennials and blooming blossoms (not the Outback Steakhouse kind) can increase vitality, hope, optimism and a positive outlook, and provide a “spring in our step” if you will. That is unless of course you have allergies or hay fever, in which case you’re a probably a flower hater.
Look around, thanks to the warm weather we’ve had this winter, our hills and valleys are spectacular. The Tri-Valley would be the perfect set location for a charming little romantic comedy entitled Spring Fever starring the devilishly handsome Ryan Reynolds and irresistible Julianne Hough. I envision them strolling along Prospect Avenue in downtown Danville, holding hands and window-shopping before lunching at Sideboard while reading the latest issue of Danville Living magazine.
Spring has long been referred to as a prelude to summer, a summer tease. That’s right, exhaustive research (of course I made it up) states that most people feel that the breezy cloud-filled days of April and May are preparing us for, or a build up to, the warm days and star-filled nights of June, July and August. Flying kites, tending gardens and playing sports are ideal ways to prep for family camp outs, company BBQs and neighborhood pool parties.
Spring Fever is rarely terminal; although, it can certainly feel like you’re dying a slow death if you’re stuck in a classroom or office building on a beautiful sun-filled weekday afternoon. Adults are just as susceptible to the fever as kids. I’ve personally known at least two co-workers who have spent time in “treatment facilities” as the result of over medicating the Spring Fever with margaritas or mojitos.
The secret to successfully dealing with the onset of the fever is to first recognize the fever’s five “R” triggers:
1) Realize when you just can’t stand to be indoors another second
2) Respect the call of the outdoors
3) Respond to the calling
4) Reward yourself with an abundance of outdoor exercise, partying and playtime
5) Rinse off and wipe down. Sorry, wrong illness.
6) Repeat Step 4 until exhausted.
A little bit of spring fever rehab can actually make your weekends much more enjoyable and rewarding.
