As the leaves begin to change and the crisp air of Autumn sets in, sometimes your mood can become a little low, or you may suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD),
SAD is generally linked to less exposure to sunlight, hence it being an issue during Autumn and Winter. We produce a variety of hormones to help us function during the day and sleep at night and its said these (hormones) may be affected as the light changes.
Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland, which controls our patterns of consciousness & sleep. Our bodies influence how much melatonin is created as does the 'light' we're exposed to. We need melatonin for sleep, which then decreases as the morning begins when we become more wakeful. When suffering with SAD the levels are thought to remain higher than normal, causing that lethargic, can't be bothered feeling! This blog is to help you reach your full potential during Autumn.
Autumn can be a time of encouragement to slow down, reflect, and realign with ourselves. It's a season of transformation, not just in nature, but within us as well. It’s the perfect time to focus on self-care, grounding ourselves as we transition from the hustle of summer to the quiet introspection of winter.
Here are some gentle reminders and tips to help you embrace autumn’s offerings and find balance through self-care:
1. Notice the colours
Autumn offers a beautiful palette of colours, crisp mornings, and the soft rustling of leaves. Take the time to step outside and immerse yourself in the changing environment, whatever the weather. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the woods, or simply sitting in the Autumn sun with a warm cup of tea, this can be incredibly grounding. Allow the beauty of the season to inspire time for calmness and gratitude.
2. Nourish Your Body with Seasonal Foods
As the days shorten and the season changes, so do our own needs. Autumn brings an abundance of nourishing foods that are perfect for comfort and healing. Think hearty soups, roasted root vegetables, and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Incorporating these into your diet not only satisfies the palate but also supports your body’s natural rhythms, helping you stay balanced and energized.
3. Create a Cosy Space
It’s important to embrace the changes and create a space in your home that feels warm and inviting. Simply adding a new soft blanket, treating yourself to a new candle or two or some new comfy slippers (I'm showing my age 🤗) can help create that feeling of warmth and comfort you need at this time of year.
4. Nurture your mind
Autumn is a time to pause and be present, try meditation, journaling, or deep breathing, all can help you stay connected to your inner self. These practices don’t have to be time-consuming; five or ten minutes every day can make a significant difference in how you feel and how you respond to the world around you.
5. Prioritize Rest
As Autumn moves ever closer to Winter our bodies naturally crave more rest, make time for a early night, prioritizing your sleep and allowing yourself to slow down. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, maybe with a warm bath, a good book, or some herbal tea. Listen to your body and give it the care it needs.
6. Engage in Creative Projects
As the weather changes and we spend more time indoors its a perfect time for trying new creative activities . Whether it’s painting, knitting, writing, or baking, engaging in something new can be incredibly rewarding. It’s a wonderful way to reduce stress, enjoy your own company or why not have a creative/social weekend with family or friends. Enjoy good company, a laugh and some fun thrown in.
7. Reflect and Set Intentions
Autumn is an great time for reflection. Think about the months that have passed by, note the good times, your strengths, and focus on what more you'd like to have in your life. Gain direction for the future, whether its the rest of the year or the beginning of the new year too, it will help you move forward in creating the future you'd like to have.
8. Stay Connected with Loved Ones
While autumn encourages introspection, it’s also a season of gathering. Make time to connect with friends and family, whether it’s over a home-cooked meal, a cozy movie night, or a simple phone call. These connections can be a source of warmth and comfort as the colder months approach.
9. There's always room for self-kindness
How you speak to yourself matters. As you navigate this quarter of the year, be gentle, be kind with yourself. If there have been any changes embrace them, release what no longer serves you, and treat yourself with the kindness and compassion you deserve 🥰
Are you in need of some relaxation, something to help get you started on focusing on your wellbeing? Don't feel selfish or unworthy, make the time because you are worthy and do deserve to focus on yourself, maybe with reflexology for your self care, reiki for your emotional wellbeing or even a luxury holistic facial, get in touch if you like the sound of those, or even consider a 'Rebalance Ritual' treatment here with me at R&R Therapy especially for the Autumnal phase of a woman's life but would suit the actual season of Autumn too.
10. Celebrate the season
Celebrate all things Autumnal, seeing your breath in the air, the cobwebs sitting on the hedgerows, the wind and rain on you windows when you're tucked up in bed, or putting on your first cosy jumper - sometimes its the simple things that can bring real, we just have to recognise them.
Autumn is my favourite season for all of the above reasons, it's a season that invites us to slow down,and nurture ourselves. Making time for self-care and finding balance can truly help us to envelop this wonderful time of year, to feel and enjoy warmth, peace and comfort.
Happy Autumn!
Rachel 🍂
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