I am not a winter person and I struggle to remain buoyant in the long NYC winter. Its extra hard as my family and friends in New Zealand are literally in the middle of summer at this time of year, with everyone posting pictures of summer life! My January birthday–celebrated always at the beach, during midsummer at home–is now in the depths of brutal winter. It’s tough!
However over the years I have trained myself not think of autumn as a descent into winter and now I love it as a season. It is a truly beautiful time and to be really in the season, I try to get out and walk as much as possible, watching the shift of the leaves and the light. Being in the moment has helped me so much.
But as we all know winter is coming and we need to be prepared for it. I don’t mean getting your binge-watching list lined up, although that is sometimes just what we need!
Autumn is a time to prepare for winter in that we need to really take care of ourselves. Autumn is definitely a self-care time of year, what we do now can really set us up for winter.
Wearing oneself out in autumn can result in low immunity for flu season. Getting into a healthy, perhaps more structured routine with good sleep patterns is important.
I mentioned being out in nature and not only is this visually gorgeous but it also helps our body tune in to the season. We want to mimic what is going on in nature – releasing and restoring. We start to naturally crave the foods that are in season. The key is to work with the season rather than against.
When the temperature drops the body scrambles to protect itself from heat loss. Nourishing foods are essential. Adjusting to seasonal eating means we make a shift from the raw and cold foods like salads to warming, gently cooked ones like soups and dals.
We can really simplify our diet and think of food as something that will nurture us. Root vegetables, carrots, beets along with pumpkins (they are not just for Halloween!), and butternut squash are all wonderful this time of year.
Autumn is not the time for skipping meals. Irregular meals times can create stress and deficiency in the body. Nurturing now can help prevent colds and flu over the transition and into winter.
As always, Mindfulness can help us with self care, too by just bringing us into the moment, being aware, bringing the mind to focus on where we are rather than the past or future. Being aware of our surroundings, what we are seeing and smelling, hearing and touching regularly throughout the day is like a mini release and renewal.
Meditation is always helpful no matter where you are. The benefits are worth the discipline. In line with the quieting and internal nature of the season, it can be a good time to start a Meditation practice. Taking this time can help in so many ways, including through transitions.
Autumn really is a beautiful season, make sure you take the time to soak it up and adjust!
Brogan Ganley, Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher, Integrative Therapist, Yoga Teacher, Reiki Master