Why does libido vary according to the seasons? Explanation in 5 points

Well, it seems we need to talk, candy canes.

Spring is teasing your most primal sensations... You only dream of spritz on the blue coast while dancing the lambada pressed against the sweet and salty body of the stranger you just crushed on?

(The spritz is actually very secondary)

ANYWAY, SAILOR... STOP! I ask you and your wild hormones to take a bit of a hold on yourselves.

Every year it's the same, a daisy pops out of the ground, and you're unable to enjoy anything other than frolicking without overalls.

EVERYTHING IS FINE, it's normaaaal. We'll explain in 5 key points why you look like a grumpy bear in winter and why you give your life for a hug from the end of March.

1. The role of light and hormones

Melatonin - Serotonin - Gallopine

Our body is deeply sensitive to light variations:

• In summer: Prolonged exposure to natural light stimulates the production of serotonin (the well-being hormone) while inhibiting melatonin (the sleep hormone). This hormonal cocktail promotes both good mood and... sexual appetite.

• In winter: The reduction in sunlight reverses this hormonal balance, with more present melatonin (fatigue) and decreased serotonin (lower mood).

Sexual hormones

• Testosterone: Its level generally peaks in spring and autumn. A 2022 meta-analysis (Human Reproduction Update) reveals that testosterone follows a relatively clear seasonal rhythm with peaks from autumn to spring (+ 20%) and a tangible decrease in winter.

• Estrogens: Their production also seems to follow seasonal cycles, with effects on what is called feminine libido.

2. The effect of temperature on bodies

The stimulating effect of heat

The summer period acts as a real natural booster:

• Vasodilation: Heat improves blood circulation, including in erogenous zones.

• Exposed bodies: The reduction of clothing increases visual and tactile stimuli.

• Vitamin D: Its synthesis under the effect of the sun contributes to hormonal regulation.

6

The winter brake

Winter puts our body in "energy-saving" mode:

• Priority to maintaining body temperature at the expense of other functions

• Natural reduction of physical activity and peripheral circulation

• Less skin exposure and physical contacts

3. Psychological and social factors

The mood of the season

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): This form of winter depression affects 3 to 5% of the population, with direct impacts on libido.

• Spring effect: Increasing brightness, May holidays, then vacations and easing of obligations create a favorable psychological context.

Social rhythms

• Summer period: SEA, SEX AND FUN overall.

• Winter: Holiday stress, work resumption, mental load at the max.

4. Food, sports, all that.

Key nutrients 🍋🍒 🍆

• Summer: Generally lighter diet and rich in fresh fruits/vegetables

• Winter: Greasier and more substantial meals that can affect energy and circulation

Some foods are particularly beneficial for libido:

• Dark chocolate

• Seafood

• Nuts and seeds

Physical activity

• In summer: Natural increase in outdoor activities (hiking, swimming...)

• In winter: More marked sedentary lifestyle

Regular exercise stimulates the production of endorphins and improves body image, two key factors for libido.

5. MAYDAY MAYDAYYY

Winter strategies

• Light therapy to compensate for the lack of natural light

• Diet rich in omega-3 and B vitamins

• Indoor physical activity (yoga, dance, boxing...)

• Creating a warm and intimate atmosphere

Summer strategies

• Enjoy outdoor activities

• Stay hydrated (dehydration kills)

• Vary places of intimacy (always respecting mutual consent)

Ok, let's recap. YES, your hormones are like weather vanes and you can (almost) do nothing about it.

• Accept your cycles: You are not weird, you are human (and so are your hormones).

• Enjoy summer to explore (if you want), and winter to snuggle up (if you want too).

• Listen to your body: If it tells you "cuddle now," listen. If it tells you "chocolate + Netflix," listen too.

• Laugh at your own contradictions: Because deep down, that's real life. A mix of uncontrollable desires and velvet pajamas with Trump's face.

Whether you're the type to have a summer on fire and/or a winter in decline, know one thing: your seasonal libido is 100% natural, 100% explained, and 0% to feel guilty about.