As the air turns crisp and the kids are headed back to school, take a moment to commit yourself (and your family) to a healthy Fall. Things tend to get a little hectic with the change of season, especially with work and the holidays in the distance, but this is actually the time of year we need to slow down. It is time to gather, store, organize, and wind down from summer's high tempo and the relentless forward momentum that modern living usually demands. As the days grow shorter, it's perfectly okay to allow yourself more time to rest since your circadian rhythm is shifting, along with the earth's. This could mean going to sleep a little earlier, waking up a little later, even taking a catnap in the afternoon. Focus on you and your family’s health, so you can really enjoy the Fall. Try these tips below:
Get it together.
Take a lesson from your kids as they prepare for a fresh new school year with their new outfits, school supplies and excited attitudes. Start fresh like they are this month by recalling back to your new years resolutions, working on that project that you keep putting off or committing yourself to a goal you lost track of. Organize something in your life, whether it is a closet, a cabinet, your desk area, your bathroom, a kitchen pantry, your files, etc.
Schedule in self-care time.
Schedule in at least one hour per week of self-care to focus on yourself and let go. This can be curling up and reading a book, scheduling a massage, treating yourself to a pedicure, taking a long walk outside, journaling, etc. Work on a project that you’ve been putting off, cook a meal to soft music and enjoy it by candlelight. Write in your calendar when you'll do these things or set your phone alarm to remind you so that you don't let them fall to the wayside! You deserve it.
Work it out.
Aim to work out at least 3 times a week (if not more!). Aerobic activity improves the exchange of oxygen in your body to keep your immune system strong and your lungs clear, which is important during this time of year. No matter what your physical activity of choice is, just be sure to do it. Get outside for a nice walk. Crunch those fall leaves under your feet, get a whiff of wood smoke, and watch the colors change!
Enjoy healthy, seasonal foods.
Make an effort to embrace the Fall through all of the abundant seasonal foods. Think of creative ideas for healthy snacks, breakfasts, lunches, dinners and desserts. Dice a crisp apple in the afternoon and toss it with ground cinnamon and nutmeg to satisfy your sweet tooth. Keep a log of any recipes you and your family enjoyed to make again or to share with others. Spread the goodness and healthfully welcome Fall!
