Fall is definitely in the air here in Colorado! The aspens have been turning gold and some leaves are even starting to fall away. Heading into cooler weather and earlier darkness is a change we all have to adjust to, especially when we live in geographic areas with four distinct seasons. Here’s some ways to make the most of fall and stay with your wellness routine.
- Fall is the perfect time to take your workout outdoors. The air is usually crisp and cool, the sun is usually bright, and working out in nature is a proven way to boost mood and energy. Try hiking, or brisk morning walks (be sure to get your heart pumping), cycling, trail running. If your local rec center offers outdoor activities or classes such as yoga or tai chi, that can be a great way to enjoy the weather and get a workout in.
You Know What’s Around the Corner……
Halloween is coming up fast, and the holidays will be underway before you know it. (Is it just me or do they seem to come faster every year?) If you’re one of those people who have a love-hate thing going on with the holiday season, here are a few ideas to consider that will help you bring more ease and joy into the season.
- Be Intentional. Decide going in what you want your holidays to look like. If this is a year to keep it simple, do that. There is no law that says you must attend every party or event, or send out a never-ending list of holiday cards. If you’ve got a case of holiday merries and want to spread it around, do that. You get to decide what your holiday season is going to be like. On a similar note, be present. Don’t miss the special moments in front of you because you’re thinking of everything left on your to-do list.
- You don’t have to do everything. If you’ve been in the habit of raising your hand every time there’s a call for volunteers, room moms, party planners or cookie bakers, stop it! Start now to think about what you can reasonably do and contribute, whether it’s for the office, a family gathering, or community organization. Plan to build some spaces in between activities and obligations – a night home or a weekend in with your family watching football or movies. Think about how you want to spend your holiday time, and with whom, and be mindful about what you commit to.
- Know when to stop. Pushing yourself beyond what you can reasonably do is a recipe for exhaustion. It’s not enough to know your limits, you have to put that knowledge into action. If you are piling more on your plate than can reasonably be accomplished in a day, no wonder you are feeling overwhelmed and drained. Take a look at your to-do list and your commitments. What are you willing to let go of?
- Take advantage of online shopping. No longer an activity that consumes days and weeks, gift shopping and gift giving can take less than an afternoon when you shop online.
- Get your sleep. Whatever you are doing – shopping, traveling, visiting – you’ll enjoy it more when you’re getting enough sleep. From irritability, moodiness, and impaired judgment to dull skin and weight gain, lack of sleep affects or bodies, minds and spirits. Studies show that not getting enough sleep activates hunger because it increases a hormone, ghrelin, that stimulates appetite, and can also lead to increased cravings for high-sugar and high-fat foods.
- Remember what matters most to you. For most of us, the holiday season is a time to spend with our families and friends. The times you are together today will be the memories you have for tomorrow. Make them count.
“Be merry. Spread holiday cheer by spending time enjoying the company of others at the party. The more you talk, the less time you will spend eating.” ~ Harvard Health Blog, November 27, 2018.
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Thoughts? Comment below or email me at suzanne@evergreenlifeandwellness.com.