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Fall is many people's favorite season for a reason. From embracing the changing colors of nature and engaging in grounding activities like hiking and forest bathing, to incorporating seasonal foods and spices into our diet, this transformative season can offer many benefits to our overall wellness.
Find out how you can harness the unique energy of this time to embrace the spirit of renewal and nurture your physical, emotional, and mental health.
Just because summer vacation is over, that doesn't mean you have to stop having fun outside. In autumn, connecting with the outdoors becomes even more rewarding. The crisp air, vibrant foliage, and cooler weather create a visually stunning environment that boosts your mood.
Whether you spend quality time with your family by taking a walk in the park, hiking through trails, or going apple picking, make an effort to spend time outdoors so you can witness the beauty of nature's transformation firsthand.
Spending time outside during the day can also increase your body's vitamin D levels. This nutrient plays a key role in every healthy lifestyle bysupporting bone health and the immune system¹.
Autumn is the perfect time to indulge in a variety of seasonal produce. These fresh fruits and vegetables not only provide us with essential nutrients but also support our immune system during the colder months. Even for those who do not eat an entirely plant based diet, fall produce can be a star in all sorts of healthy meals.
From apples and pears to squash and sweet potatoes, the options are abundant. Pumpkins, in particular, are a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and fiber, they offer a multitude of health benefits². The season of dark leafy greens and root veggies is right around the corner as well.
Autumn makes us want to enjoy warm comfort food. Incorporating healthy ingredients like whole grains, lean proteins, and seasonal spices into your meals can provide you with the warmth and nourishment your body craves during this chilly season.
There are tons of ways to stay active during autumn. Enjoy outdoor activities like going for a hike or a bike ride. You can also participate in outdoor sports to engage with nature while getting your body moving. These types of moderate intensity exercise not only improve our physical health but also help to reduce stress and improve our mental health³.
Yoga and mindfulness practices are also excellent ways to connect with yourself and the changing seasons. By practicing mindfulness and focusing on the present moment, you can cultivate a sense of peace and grounding. Fitness in nature, whether it's a jog in the park or a workout in your backyard, allows you to connect with the environment while simultaneously taking care of your body.
Staying active in colder weather can sometimes increase the likelihood of dehydration, so be sure to wear layers to fend off the cold and prioritize your water intake⁴.
As the seasons change, we must make self-care a priority on the fall to do list. One of the most fundamental aspects of self-care is ensuring you get enough sleep. Autumn's cooler temperatures and longer nights create the perfect environment for a restful night's sleep. By establishing a bedtime routine and creating a peaceful sleep environment, you can support your body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
With Thanksgiving on the horizon, practicing gratitude is another powerful self-care tool that fits nicely into spirit of fall. Taking a moment each day to reflect on what you're grateful for shifts your focus to the positive aspects of your life. Journaling and self-reflection may also help you navigate the transitions and changes that autumn brings. Try putting your thoughts and emotions on paper to gain both clarity and perspective.
On your journey to stay healthy this fall, try creating wellness rituals that align with the spirit of the season to help you start incorporating healthy lifestyle choices into your daily routine. Here are a few tips to get you started.
In chilly autumn, our homes become sanctuaries of comfort and warmth. To achieve this effect in your own home, consider incorporating soft, textured throws and plump cushions in earthy tones, which not only invite relaxation but also celebrate the season's colors.
The soft glow of ambient lighting, like candles or string lights, can infuse your space with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Embrace the scents of fall by diffusing essential oils like cinnamon, clove, or cedarwood, creating a sensory experience that soothes the mind. Vanilla and lavender are also excellent choices to promote relaxation and reduce stress⁵.
Make space for activities that nurture your well-being too, such as reading nooks, meditation corners, or a cozy spot for journaling. You may even choose to add seasonal decorations to liven up the areas and really bring home the spirit of the season. Try to keep things tidy too, as a clutter-free environment can promote mental clarity and tranquility.
Ultimately, crafting a cozy home environment not only reflects the beauty of fall but also provides a haven for self-care and relaxation, making it an essential component of any fall wellness routine.
As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it's essential to make wardrobe adjustments to stay comfortable and healthy. Fall invites us to embrace its unique charm, with its vibrant foliage and crisp air, but it also requires us to be mindful of our clothing choices.
Opt for warm socks to keep your feet toasty and cozy sweaters that envelop you in warmth. Layering is key in the unpredictable fall weather, allowing you to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day. Don't forget a light jacket or a versatile scarf that can be easily added or removed as needed.
Choosing natural, breathable fabrics like wool or cotton can help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating or chills. Dressing for the season not only promotes physical well-being but also enhances your enjoyment of the autumnal beauty surrounding you. So, wrap yourself in those warm socks and cozy sweaters, and relish the season's embrace.
As the season changes, so do our health needs, and nature offers a bounty of herbs to support our health and wellness. Incorporating immune-boosting herbs and spices like cinnamon, peppermint, and rosemary into your daily routine can support your immune system as cold and flu season approaches⁶.For relaxation and stress relief, herbs like chamomile, lavender, and valerian root can be brewed into soothing teas and tinctures or used in aromatherapy.
Who knows, you might even consider replacing your pumpkin spice lattes for a cinnamon spiced tea here and there.
Herbal remedies can also aid digestion, which can be particularly helpful during the indulgent holiday season. Ginger and turmeric are known for their digestive benefits and can be consumed in teas or incorporated into meals⁷.
Before trying any herbal remedies, remember to research their uses and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health concerns of any kind, especially chronic health conditions, or are taking medications. When used mindfully, herbs can be a natural and holistic way to support your overall wellness during the autumn season.
Fall is a season filled with transformative energy. By embracing lifestyle changes and developing your own wellness rituals, you can harness the power of this new season and nurture your mind, body, and soul.
Autumn provides us with a unique opportunity for personal growth, renewal, and self-reflection. So, let's live a healthy fall and face the rest of the busy year with wellness as a top priority.
(1) Harvard School of Public Health (March 2023) Vitamin D
(2) Batool, Maria, et al (May 2022) Nutritional Value, Phytochemical Potential, and Therapeutic Benefits of Pumpkin (Cucurbita sp.)
(3) Sharma, Ashish, et al (2006) Exercise for Mental Health
(4) Mears, Stephen A. & Susan M. Shirreffs (February 2014) Voluntary water intake during and following moderate exercise in the cold
(5) Koulivand, Peir Hossein, et al (March 2013) Lavender and the Nervous System
(6) Isbill, Jonathan, et al (October 2020) Opportunities for Health Promotion: Highlighting Herbs and Spices to Improve Immune Support and Well-being
(7) Peterson, Christine T, et al (June 2019) Prebiotic Potential of Culinary Spices Used to Support Digestion and Bioabsorption