Embrace the Shift

Today marks the end of Daylight Savings Time, bringing us one step closer to winter with an hour less daylight in the evenings. As the days grow shorter, it’s common to feel a shift in energy and mood, especially for those who experience the “winter blues.” But remember, nature is gently guiding us toward a new rhythm. By listening to these cues and adjusting our self-care practices, we can maintain balance, energy, and positivity all season long. Let’s use the Fall to fall into new self care routine and practices that can support us through the changing of seasons.

Why Do We Feel This Change?

Less sunlight affects our mood, energy, and vitamin D levels, impacting how we feel throughout the day. This change can influence our circadian rhythm (our internal body clock), sometimes leading to tiredness, sadness, or lack of motivation as the evenings darken earlier.

Let’s look at some ways to navigate this shift mindfully.

Wellness Practices to Embrace Shorter Days

1. Get Plenty of Vitamin D 💊
   With fewer daylight hours, our vitamin D levels can drop, impacting our mood and immune system. Consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement to maintain these essential levels. Adding vitamin D-rich foods like salmon, eggs, and fortified cereals can also help.

2. Wake Up Earlier for Morning Sunlight ☀️
   If possible, start your day earlier to capture more natural light. Exposure to morning sunlight helps regulate mood and circadian rhythm, making it easier to stay positive and energized.

3. Nourish with Seasonal, Nutrient-Dense Foods 🥔
   Nature provides foods perfect for this season! Try warm, hearty soups, root vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, and beets), and nutrient-rich greens. These foods can help ground and nourish your body as it adapts to colder, darker days.

4. Move Your Body Daily 💪
   Physical activity can significantly boost your mood and energy levels, helping to combat the winter blues. Exercise in a way that feels good to you—whether it’s a walk outside, yoga, or a more intense workout indoors.

5. Spend Time in Nature 🏕
   Even as the weather cools, fresh air and time outdoors are essential. Bundle up and go for a walk to reconnect with nature and soak in the daylight. Time outside can help counter feelings of isolation and keep your spirits lifted.

6. Connect with Your Emotions Through Journaling 📓
   Journaling can help you process your feelings and set positive intentions for each day. Use this time to reflect on what you’re grateful for, set goals, or simply write down what’s on your mind.

7. Consider Therapy or Wellness Coaching 👨🏾‍⚕️
   This season of change can be a perfect time to focus on your well-being with a bit of extra support. A therapist or wellness coach can provide personalized tools to help you navigate the shift. Soulfeel Wellness now offers personal wellness coaching; reach out at [email protected] to learn more.

Why Winter’s Rhythm Matters

Nature knows when it’s time to shift and encourages us to do the same. As we move into colder months, we’re invited to slow down, reflect, and nourish ourselves. This change in pace can be a powerful opportunity to nurture the mind, body, and soul—keeping us well, energized, and resilient.

Save This Self-Care Checklist

To make the most of this seasonal shift, here’s a quick guide to stay balanced:

• Daily Vitamin D

• Early Morning Sunlight

• Root Vegetables and Hearty Soups

• Regular Exercise

• Outdoor Time

• Daily Journaling Practice

• Reach Out for Support (Wellness Coach or Therapy)

We are approaching a season of transformation, inviting us to create routines that align with its slower pace. Let’s embrace this shift with warmth, purpose, and plenty of self-care!

With warmth and wellness,
The Soulfeel Wellness Team