How have you been since we have entered the new season?
Have you been noticing that your energy level dropped. Have you found yourself to be more on the edge? A little bit more irritated, tired or even overwhelmed? Whether we like it or not, the less sunlight can effect production of serotonin and melatonin and, our sleep and mood can be effected and, so does our productivity at work and our personal life.
Supporting your wellbeing during Autumn can be enjoyable and fulfilling. Here are 7 Ways of many how you can support yourself:
7 Ways to Support Yourself in Autumn for your Wellbeing
1./ Nourishing meals
Use variety of different colourful root vegetables and longer cooking for more flavours. Warmer foods, better absorption of nutrients. Incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables into your meals. Foods like apples, pumpkins, and squash are not only delicious but also nutritious. Don’t forget your onions, leaks, garlics, ginger, turmeric to cook with… & some fresh herbs and spices. They can provide essential vitamins and antioxidants to keep you healthy. Also, add some whole grains, lean protein, fibre and healthy fats. Top up with vitamins C, D, E, B and Zinc.
2./ Slow down little…
Practice a conscious breath whenever you can. Allocate 10mins of your time at work daily. When life gets stressful, take a break and take few deep breaths, close your eyes, and stay in a moment of stillness. Slow down with Restorative yoga – which is a wonderful way to calm the nervous system, you will feel rejuvenated and restored straight after. I teach Yin/ Restorative Thursday evenings online at 18:30 and, Fridays 18:30 at Verve Wellness Studio. Come and join. 1st class is free.
3./ Sleep more
Regular sound sleep is essential for maintaining optimal health & wellbeing. Healthy amount of sleep is vital for “brain plasticity” ( brain ability to adapt to input ). Sleeping helps strengthen memories and fosters attention & concentration. With a good amount of regular sleep helps you improve an energy level, you less likely to get sick, helps to keep a healthy weight. More sleep = you eat less and, promotes a healthy digestion. Good sleep helps with mood and stress and maintain a healthy heart.
4./ Digital Detox
We all know how important it is to take a break from all of our devices. Give yourself a regular digital detox. You will feel more focused and productive and, creative. Overall, can improve on your physical, mental health and can increase on attention span. So take a short walk now, walk to your local woodlands, plan a walk in nature, eat away from your computer & remind yourself to a stretch a little.
5./ Self-care time’
Take a plenty of time of those – you deserve it! Unwind to re-gain your energy back. Practice self-care. Self-care does not require you to “indulge” in order to restore balance. It is an act of taking care of yourself on physical, mental and emotional level. It is your necessity. Soak up in a bath. Visit a day spa. Use aromatherapy massage oils after shower or bath to keep your body hydrated. ( Autumn is drying season and our skin can become more dry and brittle. ) Allow yourself a time for meditation, mindful gentle yoga and, create a self-care practices that works for you.
6./ Practice yoga
Yoga will not only keep you flexibility in the body but also in mind. Improves concentration and teaches you patience. Increases on energy levels, reduce stress, improves on respiration, creates mental clarity and calmness and maintained a balanced metabolism. Yoga is a healing practice that once you begin, you do not want to stop. And, don’t stop. Yoga is for everyone at any age. Yoga is for life, Yoga heals. Begin now!
7./ Get into nature
What an incredible way to spend your free time. Get out there anytime you can this Autumn. Easier way to increased on oxygen level ( breathing close to tress ) when you are in nature and, you are moving rather than sitting – win win! In Japan, Shinrin Yoku – Forrest bathing – which is a therapeutic conscious act spending time in forrest. It is a practice or process of therapeutic relaxation where one spends time in a forest or natural atmosphere, focusing on sensory engagement to connect with nature. More time in nature, can improve on your mood, reduces stress & anxiety, makes you feel more relaxed, improves confidence & physical health. Connect with nature, immerse yourself in nature – because we are nature!
Embrace the Season
Rather than resisting the change in weather, embrace the beauty of Autumn. Go for walks in the crisp air, admire the colourful foliage, and enjoy the unique sights and smells of the season.
Remember that everyone’s needs and preferences are different, so choose the activities that resonate most with you and your individual sense of wellbeing.
Autumn is a wonderful season to take a step back, appreciate the beauty of nature, and focus on self-care.
Embrace the beauty of Autumn!
Love,
Julia xx