Autumn is such a beautiful season. The colours of the leaves are vibrant and warm, the low sun gives interesting lights in the trees, even spider webs can be interesting to watch. Despite this, autumn has never been my favourite season and I dread the clocks going backwards.
I do take pleasure in walking in the forest at this season and there is still some day light to enjoy, but I generally feel much better in summer and need time adjusting to the cold and dark. So I try to look on the bright side and see what steps I can take to make autumn as pleasant as possible.
Here are 5 ways to keep your spirits up this autumn:
1. Autumn is a time to reflect and implement change
Perhaps dictated by the change in school year, many of us make some changes to our daily routine at this time of the year, whether we have children or not.
When creating a new routine, one of the most important questions to ask ourselves in our reflection is:
“how do I stay balanced in autumn?”
As human beings, we are evolving continually. This change may be very little or more consequent and is triggered by the weather, what we eat, what we do, what happens to us at work or in our daily lives, our changing hormones. So we are often deviating from our true balance. Transitioning into a new season might require more steps to take to get back into balance, especially if it is a season we do not feel particularly well in.
So now is a good time to reflect on our work and our activities. Are they still fulfilling, bringing joy or benefit to me and/or others? Do I need to get out more and socialise? Do I need to spend more time looking after myself?
Self-care is very important, yet often neglected. If you find you have little time for yourself, how about starting by taking two minutes every day to pause and simply breathe? Taking small but achievable steps will contribute to your wellbeing – and benefit those around you too.
2. Make the most of the daylight
Days are getting shorter, and so it is important to make the most of what we have. If possible, go for a walk during the day, preferably in the morning to help balance your circadian rhythm. A lunch time walk would also be beneficial. The break will do you good and you can get some essential vitamin D from the sun. On your days off, go out and explore your local countryside. Not far from Bristol is the Westonbirt National Arboretum which is worth a visit.
Walking has many benefits, such as getting some fresh air into your lungs. When the cold sets in, we tend to keep our windows closed and so getting out and about is a way of getting some oxygen in our body. Walking also activates our circulation and helps our concentration levels.
If running is your thing, then I would certainly recommend trying out on a Saturday morning a local Parkrun. It is very friendly and non competitive, you will feel energised and can enjoy this slice of cake guilt free after your run!
3. Get creative
If you have some time on your hands, you may want to try out recipes with seasonal fruit and veg. Apple and blackberry crumble is a family favourite, but we also like soups made with squash or pumpkins. Root vegetables, pears, spinach, Romanesco cauliflower and broccoli are other autumnal vegetables, so make the most of them whilst in season. Explore making soups or stews, vary the combinations with different spices such as ginger, cinnamon and turmeric, or any other ingredient. You will be happily surprised and enjoy the time spent away from your screen.
This time is also great for trying out your artistic talents. Get your camera out and find interesting leaves or wildlife to photograph. Or pick up leaves during a walk and make some collages. Some craft ideas can be found here.
4. Get cosy during the longer evenings
Longer evenings do not mean you have to watch TV or work longer. I love reading and so curling up on the sofa with a good book is definitely a go to when possible. Playing games with other family members is also a good way to wind down at the end of the day. We like to play board games at the weekend when the sun has set. It is a good way to spend quality time with our loved ones.
Getting into aromatherapy is another option during those longer evenings. Essential oils have the benefits of helping us manage our emotions. They can help with stress, help to unwind, help to soothe muscles or manage mood swings. Treat yourself to an aromatherapy candle, essential oils or even create your own ointments, massage oil, bath oil, etc. Neals Yard and Baldwins are great places to get good quality products.
Autumn is also a good time to establish a good bed routine and go to bed early. We need more sleep to face the weather challenges so I encourage you to bring forward your bedtime whatever age you are – around 10pm is optimal, earlier is good too! And switching off your phone, or leaving it in a different room, will also contribute to better sleep.
5. Prepare for the winter
The change of season can bring illnesses to some of us and autumn is a time to prepare for the winter. Whether simply a cold or sore throat, or something more serious, it is good to be prepared. Taking a few supplements can help our immune system get ready for the cold ahead: vitamin C is a must. Zinc and vitamin D are also recommended to support immunity. In the UK we get so little sunshine in winter that it is safe to take extra vitamin D (Note: only take supplements a few days a week so as not to overburden your liver). You can also stock up on other natural supplements such as Echinacea drops or propolis in case you do get a cold.
Probiotics are also helpful, not only in keeping our guts healthy but also in improving our mood. The digestive system is often referred to our second brain, so keeping it healthy will contribute to being happier.
Related post: How to support your immune system this winter
I find preparing ahead very useful. For example, I will write a diary at the beginning of the week and make sure I include a walk on days I am particularly busy. Or I will make menus for the week ahead, this incites me on cooking more. It is easier to gather some ideas ahead so you are ready for when the season truly begins.
Do you need help managing the darker months? Let’s talk and see how I can help you.
With warm wishes,
Priscille Francetti LCCH MARH
Homeopath
