It’s (finally!) getting warmer outside, there’s a change in the air, and, if you are anything like me, you’re showing at least one of the spring fever symptoms. I swear I’ve caught it like a cold, I joke about it, and I cheer it on with the first back porch cocktail of the season. But I didn’t realize that there is biological proof that spring fever physical symptoms really exist.

No, I don’t have an actual fever. I’m not bed-ridden, and the itching in my eyes is probably just related to the rise in pollen count. But according to some sources (WebMD — please don’t judge), human beings experience real energy surges in spring due to an increase in sunlight. It triggers a change in the amounts of hormones our brains produce, a decrease of the sleep hormone melatonin and an increase of the feel-good hormones dopamine and serotonin.

So relax — there’s a scientific reason why you’re feeling energized right now, so don’t let anyone tell you it’s all in your head. Here are my spring fever symptoms — all telltale signs of a bad case.

The sudden urge to jog hits me at inopportune moments. Don’t worry, I’ve been able to quell the urge without too much effort. Maybe too much Vitamin D? Or maybe because the upcoming swimsuit season causes body image to “spring” to the top o my mind?

I’m eating lighter. Not sure if it is the abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables or the afore mentioned body image issue, but I’m craving fresh salads.

I can’t stop smiling. I’m happier, and I find myself smiling and being nice for no apparent reason. Apparently, this is due to the increased serotonin flooding my brain.

Sweeping and Swiffering have become legitimate hobbies. Medical science cannot find any biological reason for this urge we have to conduct a thorough spring cleaning. They chalk it up to a deeply imbedded Western culture thing.

Are you with me? Is there a spring in your step and a general lightening of your mood?

Get well soon.

CHRISTINA PIERCE is publisher of The Daily Iberian.