Summer is winding down and autumn is in the air. We can feel it in the lower temperatures, see it in the abundance of autumn fruit and vegetables, and smell it in the pumpkin spice beverages that are served everywhere.
With the changing season, our bodies and minds are asked to adjust again. Life becomes a little more routine with the kids back in school and vacation season behind us. Staying on top of everything can be quite hectic, so this is an excellent time to reset and find balance. This article is meant to provide a few tips on how to start into an enjoyable autumn.
Boost your Immune System
With colder weather, the sniffles are around the corner. Support your body’s natural defenses this season with these simple suggestions.
- Eat fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables
Pumpkins, squashes, corn, apples, root vegetables and other produce have many compounds that help your body stay strong - Add warming spices to your drinks or meals
Spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg and others have a plethora of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties that can boost your health in many different ways. They also add some wonderful smells and flavors - Add herbal teas for warmth, comfort, and hydration
Ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, chamomile, lemon balm, peppermint, and dandelion root are wonderful choices that add warmth, flavors, as well as a variety of healthy plant compounds - Heat Exposure through Infrared Sauna
Sweating helps with detox as well as the transition into a colder season. Sauna increases circulation, is wonderfully relaxing, and can be shared with friends - Meet with friends
Healthy social relationships cannot be overstated when it comes to boosting your immune system. They are associated with better overall health and immune function, and let’s not forget – FUN!
Spend Time Outside
Especially now that the days are getting shorter, it might be more challenging to spend time outside. But do it anyway! Time in nature – even if just 17 minutes a day – has been shown to support both physical and mental health. This could be doing sports outside, but also walking in a forest or a nearby park, sitting against a tree, gardening, or just having your coffee in the morning sun.
Find your Rhythm anew
With the changing season you might feel more tired. Adjust your sleeping schedule to allow for a little more sleep time, if possible. Wind down your daily activities when it gets dark. Get up a little earlier to spend a few minutes in the morning greeting and contemplating the new day.
If you feel down, tired, or in a slump, let me remind you that gratitude is a way out. Be kind to yourself and remember that your own wellbeing is important!
Check In Before Problems Arise
Perhaps the most important part of a seasonal reset is to simply pay attention. How are your energy levels? Has your digestion changed? Are you more stressed than usual? Have you been putting off any health concerns?
Prevention works best when you take care of any problems right when they arise. Fall can be a great time to schedule a routine visit with your healthcare provider, revisit your life and health goals, and to make sure you have the support you need for the colder months.
Have a wonderful autumn!
Your Siskiyou Vital Medicine Team
Written by Karen Wegehenkel