Times of crisis or prolonged pressure can bring a period of intense, non-stop action, but what happens when the weather breaks?

Stress is inevitable. Prolonged periods of stress are also difficult to avoid – at least occasionally. But for many people, the light at the end of the tunnel is what keeps them powering through. ‘If I can just nail this business proposal,’ someone might think, ‘then I’ll be able to slow down.’ Or perhaps: ‘I just need to get beyond this deadline, then I can really enjoy my time off.’

All too often, however, this longed-for reprieve is marked, not by beach cocktails, nor leisurely walks and indulgent pub lunches, but by miserably burrowing under blankets, surrounded by crumpled tissues. Limbs that should be aching from dancing, hiking or long-abandoned gym classes are just… aching. A head that should perhaps be pounding for possibly excessive (but hopefully enjoyable) reasons is just… pounding.

I first became aware of what’s often referred to as the ‘let-’ or ‘come-down’ effect when I was at university. As exams approached, I’d approach revision with narrowed eyes and girded loins. I’d clear my social calendar, drink gallons of coffee and burn the candle at both ends. Far from feeling exhausted, I would feel euphoric. Information pierced my mind and rooted itself in my psyche with startling clarity, lending itself to instant and perfect recall. I gobbled up words, pages, chapters. My highlighters bathed knowledge in a rainbow of colour.