I love this time of year, as the summer draws to an end everything starts to change.
From the colours on the trees, to the coolness in the air in the morning, and darker evenings perfect for a fire. Autumn is a fundamental change in the year, we mark it with pumpkin lattes, harvest festivals, the autumn equinox.
However, with all the gorgeous changes around us, it’s easy to forget that autumn can also be tough. The change in weather and daytime hours can have a huge impact on how we feel. Our bodies circannual rhythms tell us that it’s time to hibernate, to load up on carbs and even crave the sunshine, these very real physiological processes impact how we feel both physically and mentally. As we approach the colder months you may feel:
– more lethargic
– more short tempered
– higher stress levels
– more anxious
– more restless
The change is seasons can affect us all in different ways, for some they may not even be able to tell, for others it can be a real struggle moving into the colder, darker months.
So how can we deal with the changes?
Light
A great way to give yourself a boost is with a sunshine light, set at the same frequency as UV it gives you a vitamin D kick which can help stabilise your moods and give you more energy.
Mediation
Taking some time out to really be in the present, and to focus is a great way of realigning and gaining some clarity about how you’re feeling right now. When we feel stressed or anxious it can feel like we have a never-ending list of things to do or to sort. Meditation teaches us how to deal with these feelings and how to accept and let them pass, it also gives us the headspace for a short amount of time to revitalise and reenergise!
Exercise
As the days get shorted it can feel like a real challenge to get to the gym or to go for a run, instead we want to curl up on the sofa with a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit! However, the rewards of exercise, even if it’s just a brisk walk or a yoga session triggers the release of endorphins, the happy chemical that leaves us feeling great.
Accept it
Through the winter we might not feel our best, and it’s ok. If you’re having an off day, don’t feel bad about it, or pressured to feel any other way! Accept it and embrace it!
Get help
If you ever feel like things are becoming too much then talk to someone, whether it’s a friend colleague or doctor. There are so many people out there that can support and help you through it. You can even join my new Perfectly Imperfect you group here → full of people there to support each other, to celebrate the wins and help each other get through the lows.
Note – this advice does not replace medical help