Overcoming May Blues: Self-Care

As the Japanese Golden Week comes to an end, we begin to feel the change of seasons around us. During Golden Week, the weather was as hot as summer, and many people may have been surprised by temperatures similar to July. However, following that, the rapid temperature changes can make both our physical and mental health more vulnerable.

While some may have been able to refresh themselves during the holidays, others may have felt unable to relax or accumulated fatigue due to consecutive events or outings, finding it difficult to return to their daily routines.

In such a context, it’s not uncommon for many people to develop symptoms specific to this season, known as May Blues. How can we maintain a healthier daily life and overcome May Blues during this time when the balance of mind and body is easily disturbed? To find out, let’s consider the importance of self-care today.

1.Self-awareness and Understanding

While we often hear the term “May Blues,” it doesn’t actually exist as a medical diagnosis. However, the feelings of depression, anxiety, and physical fatigue that many people experience from spring to early summer suggest its existence.

In reality, the main causes of May Blues are stress and instability of the autonomic nervous system. During the change of seasons, the instability of the weather and the adaptation to new environments can become stressors, making it easier to disrupt the balance of mind and body. Also, the difficulty of returning to daily life after a long vacation is also one of the causes of May Blues.

Self-awareness and understanding are crucial for these seasonal symptoms. By recognizing that you are in a state of May Blues and accepting it, you can take the first step towards improving that state. Instead of blaming yourself or feeling anxious, it’s important to first accept this state and then take action.

When you feel the symptoms of May Blues, it’s also important to explore their causes. By asking yourself what is causing the stress or anxiety, you can more easily find coping strategies. Additionally, avoiding comparisons with others and progressing at your own pace are important.

2. The Importance of Self-Care

The symptoms of May Blues, specific to this season, are mainly caused by stress and autonomic nervous system instability. The change of seasons and the change in environment after a long holiday can easily disrupt the balance of mind and body. Therefore, self-care becomes crucial.

Self-care means taking care of yourself and maintaining the health of your mind and body. First and foremost, getting enough sleep is important. Lack of sleep not only increases stress but also affects your body. Try to get quality sleep and refresh your body.

Also, maintaining a balanced diet is important. A diet with an imbalanced nutritional balance can cause physical discomfort and mood swings. Be conscious of consuming vegetables, fruits, and foods containing high-quality proteins.

Furthermore, moderate exercise also has a positive effect on your mind and body. Exercise can suppress the secretion of stress hormones and provide a relaxation effect. Incorporate light exercise or stretching into your daily life to relieve stress.

When you feel stressed, it’s also important to find your own way to refresh yourself. Setting aside time to relax your mind and body, such as reading, listening to music, or taking a walk, can reduce daily stress. Find a way to refresh yourself that suits you and incorporate it actively.

3.Goal Setting and Time Management

One of the causes of May Blues is anxiety about new environments or changes. To reduce this anxiety, it’s important to set goals for yourself and take action toward them.

Start with setting goals. By clarifying what you want to do and envisioning your future, you can feel hopeful. In addition to setting big goals, set small goals and move forward while experiencing a sense of achievement.

To act toward your goals, time management is also important. Overly tight schedules or busyness can be a source of stress. Make effective use of your time, prioritize tasks, and accomplish them. If necessary, don’t forget to take breaks by setting aside time.

Furthermore, it’s important to avoid comparing yourself with others and progress at your own pace. By setting goals and achieving them according to your abilities and circumstances, you can gain confidence. Believe in yourself and proactively pave the way for the future.

The season when May Blues symptoms appear is also a time for new beginnings and challenges. Set goals, make the most of your time, and believe in yourself as you move forward!

4.Seek Support from Professionals

When the symptoms of May Blues are severe, consider seeking support from professionals. While May Blues is a common term, the symptoms and conditions vary from person to person. If self-care and mental stability methods alone are not effective, professional advice or treatment may be necessary.

Communication with family and friends is also important. Having someone close to you who understands your feelings and symptoms can be a source of support. Sometimes, talking about it can lighten your mood, so don’t hesitate to consult with others.

You don’t have to deal with May Blues alone. While receiving appropriate support, face yourself and regain a healthy life.

5.Medications Recommended by Pharmacists for Overcoming May Blues

To alleviate the symptoms of May Blues, self-care and mental care are important, but in some cases, the use of medication can also be effective. Here are some medications recommended by pharmacists for overcoming May Blues.

1. Hochuekkito (ほちゅうえっきとう) Hochuekkito is a type of traditional Chinese medicine that warms the body’s center (hochu) and supplements energy. It is recommended for people who experience mental fogginess, inability to recover from fatigue, and other physical discomforts and fatigue. Hochuekkito contains Chinese herbal ingredients such as ginseng, astragalus, and licorice, which support physical recovery and fatigue relief.
2. Goreisan (ごれいさん) If supplementing energy alone is not effective in dealing with May Blues, there may be cases where water retention is the cause. Goreisan can eliminate excess water in the body and adjust the body’s balance. For those who have tried Hochuekkito without success, or feel physically uncomfortable due to water retention, Goreisan is a good choice. Goreisan contains herbal ingredients such as polyporus, atractylodes, and poria cocos, which can adjust the digestive system and alleviate physical discomfort.

These traditional Chinese medicines are made from natural ingredients and are relatively low in side effects. However, the effectiveness may vary depending on individual constitution and symptoms, so please consider the appropriate use of medication after consulting with a pharmacist or doctor.

Overcome May Blues!

The term May Blues indicates the shadow that falls on the mind and body during the change of seasons. However, to cope with the anxiety and fatigue of this season, self-care is essential. By understanding your own condition and finding appropriate measures, you can reduce the impact of May Blues.

We recommend everyone to pay attention to their mental and physical health and prioritize self-care.