As the calendar turns towards fall, many of us feel a shift long before the temperatures begin to drop.
Summer vacations come to an end, children head back to school, work schedules become busier, and our days gradually grow shorter. This year, that transition may feel even more noticeable as we won’t be changing the clocks, making the earlier sunsets feel more pronounced.
Rather than waiting until you’re feeling tired, stressed, or run down, September offers the perfect opportunity to intentionally prepare both your mind and body for the months ahead.
Recognize that transitions can be difficult and you may be experiencing some anxiety. It’s normal to feel a bit “off” when you begin a new routine. Children may feel some excitement about returning to the classroom and seeing their friends. For some however, the beginning of a new school year may bring anxiety and uncertainty. Summer routines are generally more open and relaxed, whereas fall schedules tend to be more rigid and busy. Some people enjoy a more predictable, set routine while others may feel an increased pressure and time commitment. Whatever you may be experiencing, know that there is no one right or wrong way to respond. Try to practice patience and find the time to acknowledge what you’re feeling rather than trying to be perfect.
Some suggestions in coping with the new routine:
Prioritize Sleep
As daylight decreases, our circadian rhythms naturally begin to shift.
Good sleep becomes one of the most powerful tools for supporting:
• Immune function
• Mental health
• Energy levels
• Concentration
• Recovery from stress
Keep Moving
It becomes much easier to skip exercise once the weather turns colder and darker.
Instead of relying solely on motivation, build movement into your schedule now.
Take short breaks throughout your day, if possible. Step outside for some fresh air, stretch or simply sit and practice mindful breathing for a few minutes.
Whether it’s walking, strength training, yoga, cycling, or simply taking the stairs more often, regular movement supports both physical and mental health throughout the fall and winter.
Embrace the Season Instead of Resisting It
Take a simple inventory of all of the positive things that autumn offers you, rather than focusing on the potential negatives.
Autumn doesn’t have to be something we simply endure before winter arrives. Take a simple inventory of all of the positive things that autumn offers you
It can become a season of slowing down, reconnecting with priorities, and creating rhythms that feel sustainable.
Instead of focusing on what summer leaves behind, consider what fall offers: cozy evenings, nourishing meals, colourful landscapes, meaningful routines, and opportunities to care for yourself in new ways.
– Geoff Straw, Clinical Counsellor with Sitka Physio
