Summer’s Last Hurrah: Tips for a Smooth Transition into Fall
Author: Alex Duz, RP
With September around the corner, I’m sure many of us are holding on tightly to those last few weeks of Summer. For those with little ones, September brings some relief with kids being back in school and schedules adding a bit more structure to daily life. But it can also bring stressors associated with flu season, gradually spending less time outdoors, and diminishing daylight. September also offers an opportunity to hit that reset button as we treat the new school year as an opportunity to establish some new goals or routines. With this transition period in mind, here are some tips to help ease you into the season:
1) Incorporate a Daily Routine
During the summer months, it is easy to let go of firm sleep and wake times. However, a consistent sleep/rise time is invaluable to our physical and mental health. As you approach the school year, think about incorporating a consistent routine for you and your little ones so the transition back into school is that much easier. One way to make this goal a bit more intentional and fulfilling could be to include a short and realistic bed time and morning routine that focuses on helping you wind down at night, and help establish a positive and energized mood in the morning. Before bed, include activities such as bathing, gentle stretching, or meditations meant for sleep. In the morning, include activities such as movement, mindfulness meditation, gratitude, or journaling. These practices will help you book-end your days in a way that will leave you feeling steady and connected to yourself. With full time jobs and a family to keep in mind, some days can be challenging and unpredictable, which is why the consistency of a morning and bed time routine can offer us a sense of stability and control, easing some of the anxiety that comes with change and a busy schedule.
2) Bringing the Outdoors In
One way I like to keep the warmer months alive throughout the year is by incorporating the natural world into my home. Drying herbs and making tinctures, tonics, syrups, and teas, is a great way to keep yourself connected to the outdoors while keeping you and your families immune systems strong! Also, taking care of house plants can do wonders for your mood and health as the cooler months approach. You can also think about doing some DIY crafts that incorporate natural elements like dried wild flowers, branches and twigs, leaves, and pinecones, to create festive seasonal decor that is budget friendly and grounding at the same time!
3) Prepare for Cold and Flu Season
One of the biggest barriers to our well being during the fall months is the cold and flu season. The impact sickness can have on our whole family, from missing work to nursing little ones back to health can create so much additional stress for families.
Throughout the fall and winter months, I like to make sure I am cooking nutritious meals and incorporating immunity boosting ingredients, moving my body regularly, and being mindful of whether the people I am spending time with are feeling under the weather. These conversations can be awkward but important if you’re worried about getting sick. It can also be helpful to have a sick day plan with your family and additional caregivers so that if you or your children get sick often, it isn’t only one parent missing a substantial amount of work.
4) Stay Connected
It is so easy to make plans and be social in the summer months - everyone and everything comes alive! It is just as tempting to want to cocoon and retreat into our cozy homes as the cooler months approach. Though a relaxing weekend is sometimes the perfect way to spend our time, it is important to try and stay connected throughout the year. Many people struggle with seasonal affective disorder for several reasons, but some significant culprits include the fact that people typically avoid going outside in the cold or socializing as much as they had throughout the spring and summer. So slow down and listen to what your body needs, but try to remember to get outside and hang out with good friends year round - and don’t forget to take your vitamin
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or a substitute for professional consultation. It's important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. They can provide you with a personalized diagnosis, treatment plan, and support to manage your symptoms effectively.