If “doing it all” during back-to-school season, in the middle of a pandemic, has you feeling anxious, uncertain, overwhelmed, or all of the above, you’re not alone.
Time for a Change
At Align Health Centre, the fall always brings with it the feeling of new beginnings.
And it feels like now, more than ever, we could all use a fresh start.
The turn of season is a time of change for the earth, our bodies, and our routines. Of course, change isn’t always easy – and in this case, it’s not all about cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice lattes.
There’s a lot going on beneath the surface, especially given the current landscape of the world we’re living in. Tuning in to the changes happening within yourself is key to maintaining your overall health and well-being.
Understanding How Autumn Affects Your Body
Adjusting to shorter days and cooler temperatures may not seem like a big deal but these changes can actually have a serious impact on your mood, energy, and health. There’s likely a deeper reason you can’t keep up those late summer nights while trying to embrace the busy fall season.
1. Your Sleep Routine is Disrupted.
As the days become shorter, you’re exposed to less sunlight. This throws off your circadian rhythm, and messes with your sleep cycle. If you’re feeling a little exhausted lately it could be because you’re taking in fewer ultraviolet rays and this leaves your body a little confused.
To recover, you may find yourself opting for more sleep, but not getting the quality of sleep you need. After all, your circadian rhythm has been thrown for a bit of a loop. If you’re waking up feeling fatigued, this is probably why.
The solution? Make a conscious effort to get more fresh air and sunshine. Make time to take a nap (if you can) and give yourself permission to rest when needed.
2. Your Mood is in Flux.
If you were feeling anxious before September arrived, it may start to feel like things are piling up and getting out of control. This is a natural reaction to change. It’s going to take some getting used to. If these feelings don’t start to subside over time, it could mean you need to look deeper.
Lack of sunlight can create depression-like symptoms in many people. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is very common and starts to present itself around this time. Besides spending more time outside, adding adaptogenic herbs to your diet can help support you throughout this changing season.
Combining traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with Naturopathic care is a great way to make sure you’re supplementing with the right things.
3. Your Health and Nutrition Needs Have Changed.
As the weather gets cooler, your body is going to crave more energy-dense foods. Healthy fats and carbs are your friend right now. Focus on in-season, fresh produce like squash, kale apples and beets. Your metabolism is about to slow down to start storing energy. The more wholesome nourishing foods you can give it, the better.
Make staying active and hydrated a priority. Moving your body can have huge mental and physical health benefits, and all it takes is 20 minutes per day!
Keep your body moving well and make sure your form is on point by staying on track with regular chiropractic adjustments , and/or physiotherapy sessions. With regular maintenance you can prevent unnecessary injury and optimize your workouts.
Take This as an Excuse to Put Yourself First Again
The more you understand your body, the better equipped you’ll be to handle whatever life throws at you, especially right now. Look for opportunities to address your own needs. You can’t help others if you don’t fill your cup first.
Remember, be kind to yourself and to everyone else out there, we’re all going through this together.
If you could use some support, book an appointment with one of our experienced practitioners online. You can also follow along with us on Facebook and Instagram for more health and wellness tips, and join our email list to stay in the loop.
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