Autumn – what does the word make you think? Long walks under blue skies kicking leaves, followed by a cosy fire – or dark dreary mornings and evenings with a growing sense of dread about how long it will be before we see summer again?
I have taught myself to love Autumn. Sure, I used to like the long walks (and still do), but I’ve learnt to embrace the dark evenings too. Here’s how:
Tips for your best Autumn ever
- If you are awake before dawn, make the most of being able to welcome the sunrise. Five minutes of gratitude as dawn breaks sets you up for the day far better than hitting the snooze button (again).
- Get outside early on in the day – this helps regulate circadian rhythms and beat fatigue. Yes, there are certain days when it is pouring with rain but on sunny days, a run or walk is good physically and mentally.
- Learn to hibernate. You might not be able to go under the covers for four months, but you can embrace the cosiness. On the days that you can, when it gets dark, nestle up on the sofa with a cup of tea and a good book (maybe something that you’ve wanted to read for a long time) for an hour. The chores will wait. If you have young kids, a story hour (either reading to them, or them reading to you) works well.
- Embrace the Metal Element, which is the dominant element in Autumn: look for inspiration, and throw out what is no longer needed. Clearing space in the house will make space for Christmas presents… (yes, I said the C word. Sorry!)
If you struggle with the change in seasons, Five Element Acupuncture can help. Please get in touch for a chat to see if it could help you.