The leaves are changing, days are getting shorter and everything pumpkin is in season – fall is here! The seasonal transition of shorter days and cooler weather can have an impact on stress, anxiety and your overall well being. This change can be a common challenge for your mental health but there are steps you can take to prioritize wellness at this time of year.
Here are five helpful tips for fall wellness:
1. Enjoy the outdoors
As the weather cools down, it can be tempting to avoid going outside to stay active. Take advantage of the fall season to enhance your outdoor physical activity. Venturing outdoors in the fall offers the fresh and crisp air of autumn, natural vitamin D and a chance to take in the beauty of the changing leaves. Consider taking a walk, hike or bike while exploring new trails and areas of your city with friends and family.
2. Eat well
This time of year offers a great variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, along with the desire to indulge in comfort foods. Think about including fresh, nutrient-rich foods such as apples, leafy greens, squash and sweet potato into your meal planning. Take the new season as an opportunity to try new recipes you haven’t tried before. Fall also kicks off slow cooker season. Need inspiration? We’ve got you covered for hearty and healthy slow cooker recipes.
3. Stay social
With the holiday season fast approaching, it’s important to remember to stay connected with friends and family. Connecting with others helps to uplift your mood and energize your mind with interesting conversations while sharing great company. Get together with loved ones to find new and exciting activities to share together. Arrange for coffee dates to make sure you get that pumpkin spice latte, visit an art gallery or museum or even attend live music event. These experiences will help nurture your relationships and create lasting memories with those close to you.
4. Allow yourself a break
A new season can bring new stressors. Creating a wellness routine is important to fostering meaningful habits that contribute to your overall health and well being. Practicing mindfulness and stress management exercises such as mediation and deep breathing are great places to start in a self-care routine. Setting aside time for yourself to practice self-care techniques will do wonders to help you feel more refreshed, recharged and have a more positive outlook on life.
5. Get creative
Embrace your creative side to make the most of the most of this autumn season. Try your hand at some fall-inspired DIY, arts and crafts activities, such as decorating your own Halloween costume, pumpkin-themed centre pieces or even your own fall-themed candles. As a bonus, experiment with different candle scents and pick out fun names for your candles and give them out as gifts to friends and family.
What are your favourite autumn wellness practices? Take a picture of you and your family participating in these activities and tag us on social media @UHNfoundation.