It’s autumn now, which is the perfect time of year to indulge in seasonal delights such as apples, pumpkin spice, and more. This cozier time of year comes with new stressors, from shorter days to holiday planning. It may feel like you cannot do it all, or have less time and energy to do so. The change in the weather isn’t the only thing occurring, but our effort to take care of ourselves may need to change as well.
Small adjustments may help you feel balanced in this transitional season. Prioritizing your self-care should always matter, as it can impact your mindset and overall well-being. Here are four seasonal fall wellness tips for you to try.
Fall Wellness Tips to Try Out
Boost the Immune System
As fall sets in, it’s a good time to check in with your health. Use this time to get up to date on any yearly vaccinations for illnesses such as the flu, or visit your doctor for a check-up. It’s easy to let these priorities slip by the wayside if you were busy during the summer months.
Consider as well any dietary adjustments that you want to make as the seasons change. While this can vary by region, look out for pumpkin, squash, kale, sweet potatoes, and apples on your next grocery shopping trip. Eating in season with local produce can be not only a creative way to cook, but something that helps your overall health.
Check-in With Your Mental Health
Fall can be a beautiful time of year, with the leaves changing, and the temperature outside dropping. As this happens, however, the way that you are used to regulating your nervous system may need to change. With less time spent outdoors, what can bring you joy? Hone in on one activity that is just for you every day. This could be as simple as picking up a local art class indoors, or spending time reading in a favorite cozy chair with fairy lights providing ambient lighting.
What you may find is that others are feeling the same way too. Talking about your feelings openly with others is valuable relationship-building. Being an outlet of positivity when offering encouragement and support to others is another potential option for giving back the kindness and energy that you receive, creating a cycle of mutual support and empowerment.
Adapt Your Fitness Routine
As we move into fall, your movement plan may also need to acclimate. From cool weather to preparing for snowy weather, some activities may need to move indoors, or be done at different times of the day to ensure you have time to prioritize these activities. This could include checking the weather before partaking in outdoor activities so you can be prepared for what is to come. For some, this is simply layering up, but for others, this might mean taking the time to move the activity to a local gym or recreation center.
Similarly, this may be a time to take stock of what you have been enjoying over the last year. Did you stick with a yoga class as a part of a new year’s resolution? How is that going? Do you look forward to each session, feeling more balanced and energized, or has it become more of a chore than a joy? Consider what you can replace that time with in your routine if needed, or stay the course if you are still finding joy in it.
Practice Mindfulness
It’s easy to get swept up into the whirlwind of responsibilities with the upcoming holidays. Mindfulness helps ground you and keep stress at bay. Practicing mindfulness is something that can be done in small, bite sized pieces every day.
Additionally, use this transitional period to reassess personal goals and setting intentions for the rest of the year. Whether prioritizing self-care, deepening relationships, or focusing on your wellness routines, mindfulness can help you stay in tune with what truly matters. Taking the time to slow down and appreciate the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows in nature or just taking an extra moment to enjoy your morning coffee are all excellent ways to practice mindfulness in your daily routine this fall.
The Role of Massage in Self-Care in the Fall
As seasons shift, there’s no need to follow rigid guidelines to feel your best. These fall wellness tips are for you to integrate as they make sense in your life. Fall can bring on cooler temperatures, shorter days, and shifts in our energy levels, making it the optimal time to focus on yourself. A fall massage can help ease any physical tension that builds up from these changes in weather and lifestyle, and supports your mental wellness by reducing stress.
If you’re ready to take the first step of a self-care massage, Soothe is here to help you feel good, no matter what season. Whether you’re seeking relief from seasonal aches or simply want a moment of relaxation solely focused on you, Soothe offers personalized, on-demand massage services that come to you. Let this fall be the season where you prioritize yourself and recharge with the power of touch.
