Embrace Autumn

During this time of changing seasons we are presented with the opportunity to begin focusing on balancing our inner and outer world, goals and desires. With any transition, we are given the opportunity to reset our intentions and improve our routine. Ask yourself, ‘What do I need during this period?’ More rest and prioritizing sleep? Nourishing my body with good food to stay healthy during cold and flu season? Visiting a sauna or doing light therapy to make up for the loss of heat and light? There are many ways to incorporate more self-care during this time.

1. TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEALTH

The autumn equinox is a perfect time to do a check-up on your health and well-being. We’ve heard about seasonal affective disorder, which often affects people during the fall and winter. With less time in the sun, our bodies can be affected by a vitamin D deficiency. Checking in with your medical and mental health providers can help you prepare for the shorter days and make sure you have strategies to stay balanced and healthy.

2. SEEK BALANCE

Take this as an opportunity to find balance in your life. This may mean slowing down or, for some, increasing activity. Balance often means learning to be mindful day to day. Sometimes, maintaining balance is as ‘simple’ as listening to your body. Pay attention to your needs, whether it’s more hydration, movement to adjust to the changing season.

3. INCORPORATE MINDFULNESS

As the season changes, incorporate mindfulness practices into your routine. Practicing acceptance can be very helpful when you have to enter a season of life that is particularly challenging. Whether through breathing exercises, meditation, or simply being present, mindfulness can help you navigate the changes of the equinox with calm and acceptance.

4. SET INTENTIONS

Use this transition period to set new intentions and adjust your routines. With any transition, we are presented with the opportunity to reset our intentions and find a better routine. Reflect on what you need right now, whether it's more rest, nutritious food, or different self-care practices, and align your actions with these intentions.

5. CONNECT WITH NATURE

Reconnect with nature by spending time outdoors. Nature can often keep us present by helping us connect with our five senses. Enjoy a hike, breathe in the fresh air, and soak in the beauty of fall. This can be a grounding way to embrace the changes of the season.

6. CLEANSE AND CLEAR YOUR HOME

Consider doing a deep cleaning of your home as a way to clear physical and mental space. Getting rid of physical objects that hold energy from old cycles can be very healing. Light candles, journal, and reflect on what balance means to you as you organize and refresh your space.

7. LOOK INWARD

Take some time to reflect and explore your inner world. Use this fall equinox to set your inner eyes on exploring the world of your dreams, your imagination, or perhaps your deeply held feelings that have not yet been processed. Journaling or meditating on your thoughts can help you embrace the introspective energy of the season.

It’s a wonderful time to embrace transition and find your own rhythm in it. Remember that it doesn’t have to be completely idyllic or perfect. Instead, focus on finding the positive. Not every season is going to be a ‘great season’ or your ‘favorite season,’ but you can find the good in every season.”

Embrace the arrival of fall as an opportunity to enjoy the experience and focus on what feels good for you in this season of change. It’s a time to reflect on how far you’ve come and reap the rewards of your growth.