Post-Summer Wellness Tips To Help You Thrive This Fall (& Beyond)
Summer 2022 has been a wild one, but as September creeps in, it’s time to get back to reality and, for the first time since the you-know-what, return to some normalcy. There’s also just something so hopeful and restorative about the change of a season, especially fall. It’s that back-to-school feeling that comes around no matter how long it’s been since you graduated, that fills you with determination and a new sense of purpose – a clean slate.
To help you make the most of the new season energy, we got in touch with Simon Tomkins, a Life Coach who specializes in helping people create work-life harmony. After chatting with Simon, it was clear he understood exactly how we felt; “As the summer comes to an end, the days get shorter, and the energy around us shifts. It’s important to maintain inner balance.” Amen to that! So, without further ado, here are five simple things you can do to look after your mind, body, and soul to stay healthy and motivated for the rest of the year… And beyond.
1. Create a Simple Morning Routine
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Speaking from experience (yes, we joined the 5 am club), carving out some time for a healthy morning routine sets the tone for a positive, productive day.
Simon explains, “Studies have shown that the 10 minutes after we wake up has a huge impact on our whole day. Create a simple morning ritual that works for you and accounts for the change in the season. For example, you may want to start gradually waking up earlier. The easier it is, and the more you enjoy it, the more likely it is to become a habit.” Simon’s go-to rituals? “Consider including two minutes of gratitude when you wake up, a cup of cinnamon tea, lighting a scented candle, a yoga session, or a short walk.”
Of course, as beauty lovers, we also incorporate beauty rituals into our morning routine. We love to practice gratitude while we do lymphatic drainage or practice positive affirmations while we do our skin routine. If you’re yet to experience to magic of affirmations or gratitude, trust us, it’s SO worth it. One study showed that practicing gratitude reduced depression and increased happiness, while another study showed that affirmations decrease stress and increase the amount of exercise you do.
2. Embrace the Change in Season
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“A powerful principle of positive psychology is – where attention goes, energy flows. Rather than focusing on how you miss the long sunny days of summer, picnics in the park, or lying on the beach, you can embrace the autumn and winter,” says Simon.
“Variety is the spice of life after all!” #Facts! “The wind and rain and cold and snow can be enjoyable experiences if you choose. Get some decent outdoor gear, step out into the elements, and place your attention on appreciating the power of nature – run, walk, cycle or hike, whatever you want – just enjoy feeling alive!” Honestly, we’re already excited for pumpkin latte season, cozy self-care nights, not to mention the holidays. (Mariah, we’re almost ready for you).
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3. Schedule Exciting Things
PSA: just because the summer’s over doesn’t mean you can’t still have fun! The winter months are a great opportunity to do different things. Simon explains, “Our minds live in three places – our remembered past, our (perceived) current reality, or our imagined future. Planning things to look forward to therefore removes some of the future uncertainty, paints a brighter picture, and influences your mindset.” This is why he encourages planning things that excite you – walks with friends, Sunday brunch with your squad, music gigs, Winter Wonderland, Christmas markets, ice skating. Simon insists, “Book in activities for Jan and Feb too, so you have fun things to look forward to.”
4. Make Your Home Feel Cozy
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“Our mind and body are inseparable, which is why our mood and productivity are elevated when we are physically comfortable. Physical discomfort equals mental discomfort,” Simon explains.
So, as the nights and days get colder, get yourself cozy; we’re talking blankets, hot chocolates, candles, fluffy socks, and hot baths. Simon advises, “Don’t sit at home shivering; find a way to keep your home at the temperature that suits you. Yes, your energy bills might go up, but consider this as an investment – being comfortable in your environment is important!” And remember, you won’t be splashing out on Aperol Spritz’s all week long now, so you can redirect those funds. That said, if your budget won’t allow it, a good blanket and hot water bottles are a great way to get snuggled up at home. Oh, and of course, a steaming hot bath.
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5. Take Some Time to Work on Yourself and your Goals
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Summer is usually a busy time, but Simon suggests to “Embrace the less hectic schedule as an opportunity.” He references Gandi’s quote: “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” Simon explains that “You can learn about yourself through journaling, thinking, and reflecting on your year so far, what went well, what could have been better, and what you want to change in the future.” We’re low-key obsessed with journaling – check out our journaling 101 here.
This fall, Simon suggests, “Reassess your values and think about your goals for the coming year. While you’re at it, you could use the time to learn a new skill that’s relevant to your future goals and ambitions – take an online course, learn a language, an art, craft, sport or study a new subject.”
What are your back-to-school wellness tips? Let us know in the comments below.
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