Have you noticed that as soon as Autumn is here, we begin to feel a little different? Autumn is a time of change for the earth but for our bodies too.
The world around is begins to slow down and you may notice you’ve suddenly become more tired, we are exposed to less sunlight and this is a shock to our body and therefore require more sleep to recover.
You may notice a change in your mood, again the change in the amount of sunlight we received can be the reason for this and if you feel you are lacking energy, the blue feeling can definitely be heightened.
Have you noticed you want to eat more in Autumn? I certainly have! This is because Autumn is telling our bodies that Winter is on its way, therefore are bodies begin to crave foods that are more energy dense such as carbohydrates, this enables our metabolism to slow down so it can store this energy for Winter. So, don’t worry, your food cravings are a natural response to the seasonal change!
Animals are preparing to hibernate and sleep through these colder months, but unfortunately, as much as we may wish to be able to do this, us humans can’t! Therefore, I think it is important to understand that it is ok to slow down for Autumn, to take time out to enjoy the changes Autumn can bring, so here are some tips to help you do this:
Get outside and enjoy nature- As the leaves change, there is no doubt that Autumn brings some beautiful scenery. Make the most of these changes and the last of the sunshine too! Connecting with nature is perfect for boosting your mood and improving overall wellbeing.
Enjoy the seasonal foods- Apples, plums, pears, pumpkins, potatoes, leafy greens and leeks just to name a few. Perfect ingredients for tasty pies or soups that warm the heart!
Read a book- There is nothing better than relaxing with a good book in the Autumn months. Whilst you wind down and chill, you are still keeping your brain active. Reading is a perfect form of selfcare and gives you the opportunity to shut off from the world for a little while.
Fill your home with Autumn Scents- It is the perfect time for candles and wax melts, have these burning and fill your rooms with lovely Autumn fragrances. Another perfect way to boost your mood. Not a candle or wax melt person? Then don’t worry, baking some delicious Autumn recipes can do the job just fine too.
Bring out the blankets- Autumn means it will begin to get colder, but also, we are faced with a worrying cost of living crisis too. Dig out or treat yourself to a lovely warm blanket! Perfect for snugging down into and multipurpose too! Use them in front of the television, when you’re reading a good book or for extra warmth in bed!
Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate- Autumn is the reason where all these fancy drinks are released in the coffee shops. But for me, you can’t beat a good old hot chocolate with Marshmallows! Sweet, satisfying and warm. I have also found that I seem to sleep much better after a hot chocolate before bed. After all, Autumn is the time to indulge!
Get plenty of rest- It is important that you listen to your body when you are low on energy or feeling tired. Resting is important to keep us grounded, happy and healthy. So, don’t feel guilty if you find yourself needing to go to sleep earlier. Naps are also a perfect way to squeeze some rest into your schedule, the more rest you have, the more you continue to replenish your energy!
Update your wardrobe- This doesn’t necessarily mean going out and buying more Autumn themed clothes, it could simply be rearranging your wardrobe so your Autumn clothes are to hand. It will make those early, cold mornings so much smoother if you have everything you need waiting!
Enjoy a good film- Autumn is the perfect time to have cosy movie nights in. It is also the perfect time to bring out the classic films! Why not go the extra mile and make sure you have a box of chocolates to hand too!
