Perimenopause Is Kicking My Ass: A Survival Story 11 Years in the Making

Posted on July 17, 2025July 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

When It All Started

If you had told me back in 2014 that I’d still be riding the perimenopause rollercoaster in 2025, I would’ve laughed in your face. Then again, maybe I wouldn’t—because I’d be too busy squinting through an ocular migraine, bloated like I swallowed a watermelon, and Googling “what does a stroke feel like?” at 2:30 a.m.

I hit puberty early, had kids early, and pretty much ran my reproductive system like a demolition derby. So yeah, maybe it makes sense that the “change” kicked in sooner than average. But 11 years? That ain’t a change—that’s a damn lifestyle.

The First Symptom: What the Hell Was That?

My periods were once like a Swiss watch—every 28 days, no fuss, no drama. I naïvely assumed menopause would be the same. Spoiler alert: it is not.

My first warning sign? An ocular migraine. I wasn’t even a headache person, so when I suddenly started seeing through what looked like a vibrating Coke bottle, I panicked. I thought I was having a stroke. That led to my first of many ER visits, CT scans, and puzzled doctors who all patted my head and told me I was “fine.” Except I wasn’t.

Heart Racing, Bloating, and Full-On Night Terrors

Not long after the migraines, I started waking up around 2-3 a.m. with my heart racing like I was being chased by something invisible and terrifying. My stomach would swell up like I was nine months pregnant, and the acid reflux would hit like a freight train. The cycle always ended the same: me freezing cold, shaky, and sure I was dying.

Turns out, these were nocturnal panic attacks—but they weren’t just “in my head.” I later learned the connection between gut issues and the vagus nerve. When my bloated stomach compressed that nerve, it triggered heart palpitations and panic. Vicious cycle, right?

These episodes led to countless EKGs, a panic disorder diagnosis, and one incredibly unhelpful doctor who refused to believe hormones were the root cause. I bought a KardiaMobile (a portable EKG), taught myself how to read it, and started using Calm magnesium powder and beta blockers at night. That combo has helped a ton—but those episodes? Still scary as hell.

Overachiever Hormones: Because Normal Would Be Too Easy

Most women my age with thyroid issues develop hypothyroidism. Not me. I went full throttle with hyperthyroidism. Racing heart? Check. Sky-high anxiety? Check. It took a kind-hearted ER doc following a hunch to even catch it.

A couple years in, things got real weird. I had a full year of bizarre neurological symptoms—brief waves of heat through my tongue, weird little patches of chill bumps (always near my right knee), and eye floaters that looked like black worms swimming across my vision. Then came the daily headaches. Three months straight of head pain and a doctor who thought 800mg of Advil every six hours was a sustainable plan.

That little plan destroyed my gut, left scar tissue on my liver, and killed my gallbladder. My food started going through me undigested—yes, as gross as it sounds—and I was sick for two full years while everyone shrugged.

The Gallbladder Saga

My gallbladder wasn’t your typical lazy slacker. Oh no, mine was hyperkinetic—constantly dumping bile, whether it was needed or not. My white blood cells were sky high, my face was flushed, and I was running out of energy and patience. It took forever to get a diagnosis, and even then, most surgeons in my area wouldn’t touch it.

Thanks to the internet and some life-saving Facebook groups, I figured out how to manage it myself with TUDCA, ox bile, and digestive enzymes. If I skip my enzymes for a couple days, I feel it immediately. But with them? I can function like a semi-normal human.

Weight Gain, Anemia, and the Ice Cravings from Hell

I gained weight—some from the hormonal chaos, some from steroid treatments, and all of it against my will. Then the heavy periods started turning into hemorrhages, and I became severely anemic. I ended up needing iron transfusions. Anemia brought its own party favors: hair loss, constant dizziness, and an uncontrollable craving for ice. Like, I go through two 10-pound bags of Sonic ice every single week.

Normal Symptoms? Yep, Got Those Too

Joint pain? Sure, but I knocked that out with collagen peptides. Mood swings? You bet. Brain fog? Constantly walking into rooms and forgetting why. Random body aches, brittle nails, dry skin, hormonal acne, sleepless nights—you name it, I’ve probably had it.

Hot flashes, though? Strangely, I’ve never had one. That’s one thing I hope stays off my perimenopause bingo card.

Why Don’t Women Talk About This?

I spent years thinking I was losing my mind. My doctor dismissed me. My symptoms didn’t fit the neat little boxes. I joined several perimenopause Facebook groups, and finally—finally—I stopped feeling so alone. Turns out, millions of us are silently suffering because nobody wants to talk about the reality of perimenopause.

So now, I talk about it. I make sure my daughters know exactly what this phase of life can look like. I even keep a spreadsheet to track my cycles, symptoms, supplements, and mood swings. You know, like a hormonal war journal.

Will It Ever End?

The average woman spends 4–5 years in perimenopause. Some are lucky with just a year or two. And then there’s me—year 11, holding strong, breaking records, and earning gold stars in reproductive overachievement.

Maybe one day I’ll write a book about this whole chaotic journey—assuming I survive it. But for now, I’ll keep managing my symptoms, advocating for myself, and sharing my story so other women don’t feel as lost as I did.

Because if perimenopause is going to kick my ass, the least I can do is drag it into the light and give it a name.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

What It Means to Be Okay with Stillness

Posted on July 16, 2025July 17, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Kirill Averianov from Pixabay

In a world that praises hustle and constant movement, stillness can feel like laziness or wasted time. But being okay with stillness isn’t about giving up—it’s about learning how to be present without needing to fill every moment.

Let’s talk about why stillness matters, what it really means, and how you can start to feel comfortable with it.

Stillness Isn’t Emptiness

Stillness isn’t the absence of productivity. It’s not doing nothing—it’s allowing your mind and body a chance to just be. That could look like sitting on the porch watching the wind blow, or lying in bed without reaching for your phone.

It’s in these quiet moments that we often hear the thoughts we’ve been drowning out. Stillness gives space for clarity, reflection, and even creativity.

Why We Resist Stillness

Many of us were raised to believe that doing more is always better. So when we sit still, we start to feel guilty. Our brains whisper things like:

“You should be doing something.”
“This is lazy.”
“You’re falling behind.”

But none of those things are true. They’re just the noise of a world that equates worth with busyness.

How to Start Embracing Stillness

Learning to be okay with stillness takes time. It’s a skill, just like anything else. Here’s how to ease into it:

Start Small

You don’t have to sit in silence for hours. Try taking five minutes a day to pause—no screens, no music, no multitasking. Just breathe.

Redefine Productivity

Stillness can be productive in its own way. It’s where you recover, recharge, and reconnect with yourself.

Pay Attention to What Shows Up

When you sit still, you might feel discomfort at first. Let it come. Notice it without judgment. The more you practice, the easier it gets.

The Quiet Moments Hold Power

Stillness doesn’t mean you’ve stopped growing. In fact, growth often begins in the quiet. It’s in the pause that we find strength, balance, and sometimes even answers we’ve been chasing for too long.

Being okay with stillness means giving yourself permission to rest, to listen, and to just be. Not because you earned it—but because you deserve it.

Signs You’re Not Just Tired, You’re Spiritually Exhausted

Posted on June 29, 2025June 29, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Engin Akyurt from Pixabay

We all get tired—physically, mentally, emotionally. But there’s a different kind of tired that hits deeper. The kind that no nap, day off, or bubble bath can fix. If you’ve been feeling off lately and can’t quite put your finger on it, you may be spiritually exhausted.

This kind of burnout doesn’t just sneak up on you—it builds slowly, quietly, until one day, you feel completely disconnected from everything that once made you feel alive. Here’s how to tell if you’re not just tired… you’re soul-deep exhausted.

You Feel Disconnected from Everything

You’re surrounded by people, but you feel alone. Conversations feel shallow, and the things that used to bring you joy now just feel like items on a to-do list. Spiritual exhaustion can make the world feel like it’s moving around you, but you’re not really in it. You’re watching life happen instead of living it.

Motivation Has Left the Building

Tasks that used to be easy now feel overwhelming. Even getting out of bed can feel like climbing a mountain. You’re not lazy—you’re drained. When your spirit’s running on empty, motivation naturally fizzles out. It’s not about being unwilling, it’s about being unable to care.

You’re Emotionally Numb or Extra Sensitive

Some days you feel nothing. Other days you feel everything all at once. Small things either don’t affect you at all or make you completely unravel. That emotional imbalance is a sign your inner self is screaming for attention and rest.

You Crave Silence but Fear Stillness

You might avoid your own thoughts because being still makes you uncomfortable. At the same time, you’re desperate for silence because the noise of life feels too loud. It’s a paradox that makes you restless and uneasy, and it often shows up during spiritual depletion.

You Start Questioning Everything

Your purpose, your relationships, your path—nothing feels clear. It’s like the fog rolled in, and you can’t see more than a few feet ahead. You’re not just tired; you’re spiritually lost and craving some sort of sign to get back on track.

You’re Constantly Running on Empty

Even after a full night’s sleep, a weekend off, or a vacation, you still feel wiped out. That’s a big red flag. Your body’s rested, but your soul is still weary. No amount of physical rest can fix a soul that’s been neglected for too long.

You’ve Lost Your Sense of Joy and Wonder

Remember when the little things used to light you up? A sunrise, a good song, a deep conversation? If none of that moves you anymore, your spirit might be crying out for reconnection. Life hasn’t gotten dull—you’ve just lost your spark.

You’re Easily Irritated and Overwhelmed

Every little thing feels like too much. You find yourself snapping more often or shutting down altogether. This isn’t just stress—it’s the symptom of being completely drained. Your capacity is shot, and your spirit is waving the white flag.

You’ve Pulled Away from Spiritual Practices

If you used to pray, meditate, journal, or spend time in nature—and now you don’t—it might be because you’ve fallen out of alignment. When you’re spiritually exhausted, even the things that used to refuel you can feel pointless. But ironically, they’re what you need most.

How to Start Refilling Your Cup

The good news? You don’t have to stay stuck in this place. Start small. Step away from the noise. Sit with your feelings. Spend time with people who light you up. Revisit the things that once made you feel connected—even if just for five minutes. Get outside. Cry if you need to. Be honest about what’s not working in your life.

Most importantly, don’t ignore the signs. Your spirit matters just as much as your body and mind. When it’s run down, everything else eventually follows. You’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to feel. And you’re allowed to come back stronger and more whole than ever.

If this hit a little close to home, you’re not alone. Spiritual exhaustion is real—but healing is, too. Start with compassion. Add in some space. The rest will come.

What Healing Actually Looks Like in Real Life

Posted on June 24, 2025June 25, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Rang Oza from Pixabay

Most people picture healing like a movie montage—quick, tidy, and with a feel-good soundtrack. But real life? It’s messier. Healing rarely arrives in a straight line, and it definitely doesn’t show up on schedule. The truth is, it can be confusing, clumsy, and unexpectedly beautiful.

Let’s talk about what healing actually looks like—outside of therapy quotes and Instagram reels.

You Still Cry Sometimes

Healing doesn’t mean the pain is gone. It means you’ve learned to live beside it. You might still cry when a song hits too hard or when a memory sneaks up out of nowhere. That’s not failure. That’s healing.

You’re no longer trying to shove it down or run from it. You’re allowing the emotion to exist without it owning you.

You Outgrow People (and Places)

It might sting a little when you stop reaching out to the friend you used to tell everything to. Or when that once-comforting place now makes you feel small.

Healing often means stepping into a new version of yourself—and that version might not fit into your old life. That’s okay. You’re not being cold. You’re being honest with your needs.

Some Days Feel Like Setbacks

You’ll have days where it feels like you’ve made zero progress. You might snap at someone you love. You might stay in bed all day. That doesn’t erase all the good days.

Healing is recognizing that one hard day doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you’re still human—and you’re still working through it.

You Protect Your Peace (More Often)

One subtle sign of healing? You stop explaining yourself so much. You begin setting quiet boundaries. You might leave a room when the energy shifts, turn your phone off when you’re overwhelmed, or say no without guilt.

You start realizing your peace is precious—and that’s a huge win.

You Celebrate the Little Wins

Maybe you didn’t cry today. Maybe you finally called the doctor. Maybe you sat outside and felt the sun on your face without your thoughts racing.

Healing shows up in tiny ways. And those tiny moments? They stack up and become big victories over time.

You’re Kinder to Yourself

That voice in your head—the one that used to be brutal? It softens. You might still get frustrated, but now you catch yourself.

Instead of spiraling into shame, you say, “I’m doing the best I can.” That shift? That’s healing, plain and simple.

You Start Looking Forward Again

One day, without realizing it, you’ll laugh from your belly. You’ll make plans for next week. You’ll get excited about something again.

It may feel foreign at first—like trying to walk in a new pair of shoes. But it’s your heart reminding you that it still believes in joy.

Real Healing Isn’t Always Pretty

Sometimes healing looks like crying on your kitchen floor, journaling until your hand hurts, or going for a walk just to breathe.

It’s unfiltered. It’s real. It’s raw.

But underneath it all is something powerful—hope. The kind that says, “Even if I’m not there yet, I’m still moving forward.”

5 Ways I Reset My Life When Everything Feels Off

Posted on May 2, 2025May 4, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Amit Karkare from Pixabay

Sometimes life just feels… off. Like your energy’s weird, your house is a mess, and your brain is yelling “nope.” When that happens, I don’t panic. I just hit my personal reset button. Here’s how I do it—quick, simple, and no fluff.

1. I Tidy One Room—Just One
Trying to clean the whole house? Overwhelming. But cleaning one room? Totally doable. I usually start with the bedroom. It sets the tone for everything else. And let me tell you—nothing hits like walking into a clean, calm space.

2. I Write It All Out
Grab a notebook or the back of a receipt, I don’t care. I just brain dump everything. What’s bothering me, what I need to do, what I’m avoiding. Somehow writing it all down makes it feel 100% more manageable.

3. I Drink Water and Go Outside
Simple? Yep. Effective? You bet. Half the time, I’m not in a funk—I’m just dehydrated and haven’t seen daylight in 3 days. A big glass of water and a short walk changes everything.

4. I Do a Phone Detox
Not forever. Just for a few hours. I put it on silent and do something offline. Read. Cook. Blast music and dance in the kitchen like nobody’s watching (they aren’t, thankfully). Anything to break that endless scroll spiral.

5. I Go to Bed Early, No Shame
When all else fails, I restart with sleep. I shut it all down—lights, TV, brain, everything. A full night’s rest fixes way more than we give it credit for.

I don’t always get it perfect, but this little list pulls me out of the weird zone every time. When life feels off, you don’t need a total overhaul. Just a few small steps to feel human again.

Which one are you trying first?

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

Stay Hydrated: Easy Tips for Drinking More Water

Posted on April 30, 2025April 30, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Nawal Escape from Pixabay

We all know water is crucial for our health, but even the most obvious things bear a friendly reminder every now and then. Drinking enough water helps our bodies in countless ways, from keeping our skin glowing to helping our brain think clearly. It’s easy to forget to drink when life gets busy. But remember, staying hydrated can lift your mood and boost your energy. It helps you feel your best overall.

Surprising Benefits of Water

Water does more than just quench thirst. For example, drinking plenty of water can help digestion. It breaks down food and keeps things moving smoothly in your gut, preventing those uncomfortable tummy troubles. Another cool perk is joint health. Our joints have a cushioning called cartilage that needs water to stay healthy and flexible. When you’re well-hydrated, your joints won’t feel as stiff or achy.

Plus, did you know water can even give you more energy? Sometimes that afternoon slump is just mild dehydration. A glass of water can clear foggy thinking and give you a pep in your step. Staying hydrated can also improve your mood and concentration. You’ll feel ready to tackle anything.

How Your Body Uses Water

Think of water as a superhero in your body. It’s in your blood, your cells, and all your vital organs. Every second, it works hard for you. Water helps your blood carry nutrients and oxygen to cells. It also flushes out waste so your body can operate smoothly. Plus, it even helps regulate your body temperature when you sweat on a hot day or during exercise. With enough water, your body’s “machinery” runs more smoothly. It’s like giving your system the fuel it needs.

Tips for Drinking More Water Every Day

Sipping more water doesn’t have to be hard or boring. Try carrying a fun water bottle with you as a reminder to drink throughout the day. You can even set mini goals, like finishing a bottle by lunch or refilling it a few times. Make it a habit by drinking a glass first thing in the morning and another before dinner. Setting little reminders on your phone can also help keep you on track. Also, sneak water into daily routines. Have a glass after brushing your teeth or take a sip between tasks or during TV commercials.

Another neat trick is to switch up your drinks. For example, drink water instead of soda or sugary juices sometimes. You could also replace one cup of coffee or tea with a glass of water each day. Over time, these small swaps can add up. It’s a big hydration win!

Make It Fun with Infused Water

If plain water feels dull, try adding flavors you love. I personally like to make a gallon of infused water a few times a week. My favorite combo is strawberry, cucumber, and mint – it tastes like a spa day in a glass! Another go-to is lemon and lime together for a tangy kick. Sometimes I toss in blueberries and a squeeze of lemon for a sweet-tart twist.

You can experiment with any fruits, herbs, or veggies. Just slice them up and add them to a pitcher of water. Let it chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors mix in. Then, pour yourself a glass and enjoy the refreshing taste.

I find I drink so much more this way because it actually tastes delicious. Plus, you still get all the perks of plain water, just even tastier.

Keeping up your water intake is easier than you think. Small changes like these can add up quickly. Soon enough, you’ll notice more energy, better digestion, and even happier joints. Keep that water flowing – your body will thank you. Cheers to feeling refreshed and enjoying every sip!

Are We Too Obsessed with “Main Character” Energy?

Posted on April 26, 2025April 26, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

We’ve all seen it: the girl walking slowly through the crosswalk with her iced matcha and sunglasses, vibing to a song only she can hear. The TikToks with people declaring “main character energy” as they romanticize everything from grocery shopping to crying in the rain. On the surface, it seems empowering—owning your moment, being bold, making your life feel like a movie. But at what point does celebrating yourself turn into something a little… much?

What Even Is “Main Character” Energy?

“Main character energy” started as a fun reminder to stop coasting and start living with intention. And hey, there’s nothing wrong with that. Who doesn’t want to feel like the star of their own story? The idea is to add meaning to everyday life, to notice small joys, and to build confidence. All good things! But somewhere along the way, it got twisted. What began as a lighthearted trend now sometimes feels like a full-time performance.

Social Media Turned It Into a Show

Social media, of course, plays a huge role in this shift. We’re constantly seeing curated content that makes ordinary lives look like cinematic masterpieces. That trip to Target isn’t just a quick errand anymore—it’s a moment. A photoshoot. A chance to show the world how aesthetically pleasing your reusable bags are. Even something as mundane as making your bed or sipping tea is suddenly part of this larger, polished narrative. It can be fun—but it can also feel fake.

Unrealistic Expectations Start to Build

What’s more, this obsession with constantly being the main character can set up some unrealistic expectations. If every day isn’t packed with magic, growth, or an inspirational moment, it can start to feel like you’re doing something wrong. Not every morning is a sunrise jog followed by journaling and a picture-perfect breakfast. Sometimes the alarm doesn’t go off, your coffee spills, and you forget to put on deodorant. That doesn’t make you less important. It makes you human.

Comparison Is the Thief of Joy (Again)

There’s also the issue of comparison. Watching others live out their “main character” fantasy can make you question your own life. If you’re not jet-setting to dreamy locations or having deep, poetic conversations in a candlelit apartment, are you even doing it right? Yes. You are. Not every story has to look the same. Some people are on an adventure arc. Others are in their healing era. And some of us are just trying to get through Tuesday without screaming into the void.

You Don’t Have to Perform Every Day

The truth is, you don’t need to be the main character all the time. Sometimes you’re the comic relief, the background extra, or the person who just holds the door open. That doesn’t make your story any less meaningful. The quiet, unfiltered moments are just as real and valuable as the highlight reel. You don’t need a camera angle or a voiceover to matter.

So, Are We Too Obsessed?

Maybe. But that doesn’t mean we should throw the whole concept out. Let’s just bring it back to what it was meant to be: a little nudge to pay attention to our own lives, to be present, and to stop waiting for permission to enjoy ourselves. Just don’t lose yourself trying to be a star in someone else’s movie. Write your own script—flaws, mess, boring Tuesdays and all.

My Most Random Blog Post That Gets the Most Views

Posted on April 26, 2025April 26, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Perlinator from Pixabay

(And Why It Still Shocks Me)

Out of all the blog posts I’ve written, one continues to show up in my stats week after week, month after month: “How to Spot the Signs of a Narcissist.” And let me tell you—I did not expect that one to take off the way it did.

It wasn’t planned. It wasn’t part of a content calendar. It just came pouring out of me one afternoon, and I hit publish without much thought. Looking back now, I realize that maybe that’s exactly why it resonated. It was real, raw, and straight from the heart.

Why I Don’t Talk About That Relationship Much

Here’s the truth: I don’t often speak on the relationship that inspired that post, because it left me with real, deep, lifelong trauma. I have PTSD. I spent 13 years in hell.

There was physical abuse almost daily—the kind that changes you, that leaves you looking over your shoulder for years even after you escape. I’ve had:

The tip of my ring finger almost completely severed and sewn back on.
My bicep slashed with a knife.
My skull cracked open.
Multiple fractured ribs and damage to my spine.

I fought back. Believe me, I fought back hard. But the emotional abuse? That’s the kind of pain that stays long after the bruises fade. I will never trust anyone and need constant reassurance. I am also cold in so many ways.

The Emotional and Psychological Toll

No one talks enough about mental abuse. The kind that messes with your head and makes you feel like you’re losing your mind. I was manipulated, gaslit, belittled, isolated, and constantly walking on eggshells.

There was also sexual abuse. And a level of betrayal I can’t even fully put into words—infidelity that included one of my underage family members. Yeah. Let that sink in.

That relationship not only destroyed parts of me and changed me in unimaginable ways, but it also damaged my children in ways we’re still trying to understand. He is a sick man. And I will speak on the dangers of narcissism any time I get the chance.

I Wasn’t Alone… and Neither Are You

What really blew me away was how many people reached out after reading that post. Women. Men. People in romantic relationships. People dealing with narcissistic parents or toxic friends. The flood of messages made one thing clear: this problem is way more common than we think.

And unfortunately, social media is only making it worse. We live in an era where everything is filtered and curated, and narcissists thrive in that world. They crave admiration, attention, and validation—and social media hands it to them on a silver platter.

Why I’ll Never Stay Silent

I’ll never stop talking about narcissism. Because someone out there is living what I lived. Someone is in survival mode right now, scared and confused, thinking they’re alone. You’re not.

If you’re reading this and wondering if what you’re experiencing is abuse—trust your gut. If you feel like you’re walking on eggshells, constantly apologizing, and questioning your worth—trust your gut. If they love-bomb you, then devalue you, then act like you are the problem—trust your gut.

You can get out. It might take planning. It might take time. It will take courage. But you can be free.

We Heal by Speaking Up

That “random” blog post taught me something powerful: our stories matter. Even the painful ones. Maybe especially the painful ones. Because when we speak up, we give others the strength to do the same.

So if you’ve got a story buried inside you, one that’s aching to come out—write it. Share it. Talk about it. You never know who needs to hear it.

And if you’re still in the thick of it—I see you. I believe you. You are not alone.

📌 Need Help?

If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, please know there are people who care and want to help:

National Domestic Violence Hotline
📞 1-800-799-7233
📱 Or text “START” to 88788
🌐 thehotline.org

You deserve to feel safe. You deserve to be loved without fear. And you deserve to heal.

National Autism Awareness Day: Embracing Neurodiversity and Advocacy

Posted on April 2, 2025April 2, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

April 2nd marks National Autism Awareness Day, a time dedicated to increasing understanding, acceptance, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum. While awareness is essential, true progress comes from acceptance and action—ensuring that autistic individuals have access to the resources, opportunities, and respect they deserve.

Understanding Autism: Beyond Awareness

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world. No two autistic individuals are the same—some may have heightened sensory sensitivities, challenges with communication, or unique ways of processing information, while others may exhibit incredible talents in areas like math, music, or art.

Rather than viewing autism as something to be “fixed,” the neurodiversity movement encourages society to embrace and celebrate the differences that make every person unique. Autism is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis, and understanding this diversity is key to fostering an inclusive world.

How to Support the Autism Community

Raising awareness is just the beginning—true advocacy means taking action. Here are meaningful ways to support autistic individuals and their families:

1. Listen to Autistic Voices

Autism advocacy should center on autistic individuals. Listen to their experiences, read their books and blogs, and follow autistic advocates on social media. Their voices matter the most.

2. Promote Acceptance, Not Just Awareness

Autism is not a “disease” to be cured. Instead of treating autism as a problem, focus on acceptance, accommodations, and understanding. Encourage schools, workplaces, and communities to be inclusive.

3. Support Businesses and Organizations Led by Autistic Individuals

Many autistic entrepreneurs and creatives run businesses, write books, and create art. Supporting their work is a direct way to contribute to the neurodivergent community.

4. Advocate for Accessibility and Inclusion

From sensory-friendly spaces to workplace accommodations, small changes can make a big impact. Encourage businesses and public spaces to consider the needs of autistic individuals, such as reducing sensory overload and providing clear communication methods.

5. Challenge Stereotypes and Misinformation

Autism is often misunderstood, leading to harmful stereotypes. Educate yourself and others about the spectrum of experiences and reject myths like “all autistic people are geniuses” or “autism is caused by vaccines.”

6. Show Kindness and Patience

If someone communicates differently, struggles with sensory input, or needs extra time to process information, be patient and compassionate. The world can be overwhelming for autistic individuals, and a little understanding goes a long way.

Moving Toward a More Inclusive Future

National Autism Awareness Day is more than just a moment—it’s a call to action for greater acceptance, inclusion, and advocacy. Whether you’re an educator, employer, family member, or friend, your support can make a meaningful difference.

By embracing neurodiversity, we build a world where autistic individuals are valued, respected, and given the opportunities they deserve—not just today, but every day.

Is Spring Fever Real? A Look at the Science & Myth

Posted on March 29, 2025March 29, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

As the days grow longer and the chill of winter fades, many people start to feel an undeniable energy shift. Suddenly, there’s an urge to clean, a desire to spend more time outdoors, and maybe even a boost in mood and motivation. This phenomenon is often referred to as spring fever, but is it real, or is it just something we’ve come to associate with the changing seasons? Let’s explore the science behind this seasonal shift and how much of it might just be in our heads.

The Origins of Spring Fever

The term spring fever has been around for centuries, often used to describe the restless energy people feel as winter ends. Historically, it wasn’t just about excitement—some older medical beliefs considered it an actual ailment. Before modern refrigeration and food preservation, people’s winter diets lacked fresh fruits and vegetables, leading to vitamin deficiencies that could cause fatigue or illness. When spring arrived and fresh food became available, it naturally brought an improvement in energy and well-being.

Of course, in today’s world, we have access to proper nutrition year-round, but that doesn’t mean the idea of spring fever is entirely outdated.

The Science Behind Spring Fever

Modern research suggests that there is a biological reason many of us feel different as winter turns to spring. Here’s a breakdown of the main factors that contribute to spring fever:

✔ Increased Daylight
One of the biggest changes in spring is the increase in daylight hours. Longer days mean more exposure to sunlight, which has a direct impact on our circadian rhythms—the internal clock that regulates sleep, energy levels, and mood. Sunlight helps suppress melatonin (the hormone that makes you feel sleepy) and boosts serotonin (the “feel-good” hormone). This shift can leave people feeling more awake, energized, and even happier.

✔ Warmer Temperatures & Outdoor Activity
Cold weather often keeps people indoors, leading to reduced physical activity and even seasonal depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD). As temperatures rise, people naturally spend more time outside, soaking up vitamin D from the sun and engaging in movement, both of which contribute to better mental and physical health.

✔ Hormonal Changes
Scientists believe spring fever may be linked to fluctuations in hormone levels. With increased sunlight and more time outdoors, the body produces more dopamine—a neurotransmitter associated with motivation and pleasure. Some studies even suggest that testosterone levels in both men and women rise in the spring, possibly explaining the increased feelings of energy, attraction, and even a desire to socialize.

✔ Psychological Conditioning
Not all of spring fever’s effects are purely biological. Our brains are wired to associate certain environmental cues with past experiences. Spring is often linked with renewal, fresh starts, and even memories of school vacations or childhood playtime. This psychological conditioning can make people expect to feel better, which in turn creates a real emotional boost.

Spring Fever Symptoms: What to Expect

So, how do you know if you have spring fever? Here are some common signs:

🌿 Restlessness – You feel an urge to break out of routines, take on new projects, or explore new places.
🌞 Improved Mood – You might feel a natural lift in your spirits and a greater sense of optimism.
🚶 More Energy – You’re suddenly more motivated to be active, clean, or tackle long-avoided tasks.
❤️ Increased Social Desires – You feel like meeting up with friends, going on dates, or just being around people more than usual.
🛌 Changes in Sleep Patterns – You might find it easier to wake up earlier or feel less sluggish during the day.

Spring Fever: Myth or Reality?

While the term spring fever might sound like an old wives’ tale, science backs up the idea that seasonal changes impact our bodies and minds. Whether it’s the biological effects of sunlight or the psychological association of spring with renewal, it’s safe to say that spring fever is more than just a myth.

So, if you suddenly feel the urge to open the windows, deep clean your home, or plan a spontaneous weekend getaway, don’t worry—you’re not imagining it. You’re just experiencing the natural, energizing shift that comes with the arrival of spring.