The Summer Hormone Shift: What Women Need to Know About Seasonal Changes and Mood
Have you ever noticed how your mood, energy, or even your appetite can change when summer rolls around? You’re not imagining things — your hormones actually respond to seasonal changes, and for women, this can be especially noticeable.
Here’s the lowdown: hormones are your body’s chemical messengers, and many of them follow daily and seasonal rhythms. In summer, longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures shift these rhythms, affecting how you feel and function.
So, what exactly changes?
1. Cortisol — your stress hormone — gets a little help from the sun
Cortisol helps regulate your energy and stress response. In summer, increased sunlight exposure can boost your cortisol levels earlier in the day, helping you wake up feeling refreshed and alert. But if you’re overdoing it with heat or stress, this boost can backfire, leaving you tired or anxious. Balancing activity with rest is key.
2. Melatonin — the sleep hormone — takes a backseat
Longer days mean less darkness, which signals your brain to produce less melatonin. This can make it harder to fall asleep or get deep rest, which many women notice in summer. Since good sleep is crucial for hormone balance, mood, and energy, creating a calming evening routine and keeping your bedroom cool and dark can help.
3. Serotonin — the “feel-good” neurotransmitter — thrives in sunshine
Sunlight helps your body make serotonin, which boosts mood and helps regulate appetite and sleep. This is why many people feel happier in summer! But if you’re indoors too much or skip out on outdoor time, you might miss out on this natural mood lift.
4. Estrogen and progesterone — your key female hormones — respond too
Seasonal shifts can influence these hormones, affecting your menstrual cycle, mood, and even skin. Some women find their cycles shift slightly with the seasons or experience changes in energy and emotional sensitivity. Staying tuned to these changes helps you work with your body, not against it.
How to support your hormones this summer?
Get outside — but wisely. Morning or evening sun can boost serotonin without overheating you.
Prioritize sleep. Use blackout curtains or an eye mask to mimic nighttime and help melatonin production.
Manage stress. Gentle movement like yoga, meditation, or breathwork can keep cortisol in check.
Eat hormone-supportive foods. Think colorful veggies, healthy fats, and hydration (see our nutrition tips!).
Listen to your body. Notice how your energy and mood shift and adjust your routine accordingly.
Summer is a time of growth, light, and energy — your hormones are simply adapting to help you make the most of it. With a little awareness and care, you can harness these changes to feel vibrant, balanced, and joyful all season long.