I hope all of you are having a great fall season so far! Up until very recently it was 90 degrees in Central Ohio. Not my idea of October weather. It was so hot and sunny my mums all turned brown. Now that cooler weather is finally upon us, I wanted to write about why fall is the best time to press an emotional reset button.
We all know the obvious reasons fall is the best. The crisp cool weather, pumpkin spice (if you’re into that sort of thing!), crunchy leaves, sweaters, football…. But let’s take a deeper look at what fall can teach us and how it can help us heal.
1) A time for goals and new starts
Most of us in the US have grown up associating fall with the start of a new school year. Fall remains a time for new starts long after we graduate from school. It is a time to set goals, start new projects and evaluate how far we’ve come and what we would still like to accomplish. Read John Sharp, MD’s blog about the effect of the seasons on our emotions- he also wrote a great book called The Emotional Calendar that explores how the seasons impact our lives.
Fall is a great time to take a look at your progress for the year and make a final push towards your goals.
2) The earth is reminding us to switch gears
One of the most notable changes fall brings is a sharp decrease in light. For many this can bring increased depression; it is important to stay active, have a daily routine and practice self-care during this time. This can also be an opportunity to slow down and allow for some downtime, especially in the evenings. I don’t know about you but when it is hot and sunny until late in the evening I feel a pressure to get things done. Sometimes I will be out doing yardwork or going for a run at 9pm. Fall reminds me to relax and allow some time to unwind.
3) A delight for all of the senses
Spending time outside in the fall can provide a wonderful backdrop for mindfulness meditation because it touches on all of the senses! Get outside and notice the colors and shapes that you see. Hear the wind and crunching leaves. Smell the leaves, wet earth and wood fires. Taste a warm drink or a crisp apple. Touch a cozy scarf or blanket.
Take a moment to enjoy all of the treats for the senses that fall provides.
4) The calm before the holiday storm
The holidays and all of the hustle and bustle, obligations and errands that come with it are right around the corner. Take this time to take a breather and really relax into the coziness of fall. Find time soon, (preferably today!) when for even just a few moments you can settle in to the present. Feel your feet and breathe.
5) Fresh air
To me, fall is the best time to get outside and take a deep breath. The air is crisp, cool and clean. It’s not too hot and not too cold (yet) and there is something magical about the fresh, clean smell. Breathe it in.
I would love to hear your favorite things about fall and how it helps you reset!
Michelle
Michelle Risser 