Why Does Cloudy Weather Make Us Feel So Sluggish?

On cloudy, drizzly days, I often feel unusually lethargic. It's as though the gloomy clouds cast a sleepy spell directly over me, coaxing me to abandon my to-do list and surrender to the comfort of a soft blanket and a quieter pace.

So, if you ever feel that extra bit of tiredness on similarly gloomy days, know that you're not alone. Then don’t worry—I'm right there with you!

You know, I've always been curious about how those grey, overcast days affect our energy levels. It's pretty intriguing to find out that there's a whole realm of scientific exploration delving into this very phenomenon.

From my own experiences, there’s a unique calm that comes with a rainy day, gently nudging me to ease up and trade my usually bustling routine for something slower. Whether it’s spending the day curled up with a beloved book or taking a thoughtful stroll with my umbrella, rain seems to change the pace. But what exactly happens in our bodies and minds when those clouds gather?

The question led me to insights from experts like Dr. Alfred J. Lewy, a professor emeritus of psychiatry at Oregon Health & Science University, who notes that the reason we might feel more tired under cloudy skies could be related to several factors, such as changes in atmospheric pressure or the reduction in sunlight, which affects our internal rhythms in ways science is still trying to fully understand.

Is There Any Relationship Between Mood and Weather?

The relationship between weather and mood is complex and not easily untangled. Kelly Rohan, a professor of psychological science, points out that while many of us might anecdotally link gloomy weather with a gloomy mood, research into this area is tricky and often yields inconsistent results.?

For instance, significant studies from the Netherlands and Germany have shown that the weather might not have as direct an impact on our mood as we might think, with findings suggesting that the effect of weather on how we feel is often minimal or highly subtle.

Yet, we know that some individuals are more sensitive to the lack of sunlight, especially those prone to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern and is more prevalent during shorter, darker days. Unlike the fleeting tiredness many of us might feel during a particularly dreary afternoon, SAD is persistent and deeply affects one’s mood throughout the season.

For the rest of us experiencing more occasional dips in our energy during less sunny days, there are proactive steps we can take to lift our spirits and boost our energy. Ensuring we get enough restful sleep is crucial, as is finding ways to manage stress effectively. Physical activity, even something as simple as a short walk or a few stretching exercises, can significantly impact how energetic we feel. And let's not underestimate the power of a well-balanced diet to keep our energy levels steady.

? Also Read: How to Meditate When You Can’t Sit Still?

Impact the Weather on Our Mood

Personally, I’ve found that acknowledging the impact the weather has on my mood is the first step in countering the gloom. On cloudy days, I try to light up my workspace with extra lamps, play my favourite upbeat music, and give myself small, manageable tasks to keep the momentum going. It's about finding that personal balance—embracing the calm that a rainy day can bring while also keeping my energy up in ways that work for me.

So the next time you find yourself feeling a tad more sluggish as the skies turn grey, remember that it’s a natural response and that you're not alone in feeling this way. Whether it's through embracing the cosiness of the day or injecting small bursts of activity into your routine, you can find your own best practices for staying alert and cheerful, rain or shine.