Staying focused on your health and well-being is important at all times of the year, but for those who live in countries where daylight rapidly fades as soon as autumn time arrives, there is no better time to give yourself a self-care a boost than the beginning of the season or even before it begins.
With this in mind we take a look at eight ways in which you can focus on your physical and mental health as autumn approaches.
Add seasonal foods to your diet
Autumn is a great time for anyone who loves their fruit and veg – the perfect foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s time to dust off your slow cooker and include delicious and nutritious seasonal favourites like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, apples, beetroot, pears, and Brussels sprouts in your cooking and embrace these earthy flavours, while reaping the health benefits, too.
Don’t forget to stay hydrated – just because the temperature is cooler, it doesn’t mean you should stop drinking water. Try refilling a glass every time you make a cup of tea or coffee throughout the day and drinking a glass first thing in the morning.
Stay active despite the cooler weather
It’s always tempting to stay indoors when the weather gets worse, but you need to stay active to maintain good health. You could try outdoor activities that get you outside into the fresh autumn air or, if outdoor activities aren’t your thing, why not try indoor exercises like yoga, Pilates, or a fun dance workout? Getting regular physical activity can help boost your mood and reduce stress as well as keeping you in good shape.
Prioritise sleep
As always, you need to prioritise sleep and maintain a consistent sleep schedule, but this is evermore important as the days get shorter. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night or however much you feel like you need to feel well rested all of the following day.
It’s always a good idea to establish a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. One top tip is to avoid screen time before bed, as the blue light from electronic devices can disrupt sleep patterns. Instead, try reading a book, meditating, breathing exercises or taking a warm bath to promote relaxation and better sleep.
Practice seasonal skincare
Your skin’s needs change with the seasons and so it’s wise to keep a selection of luxurious products in the cabinet that are designed for autumn and winter skin. Cooler temperatures and lower humidity can really dry it out, so use a moisturiser to lock in moisture and keep any dryness at bay. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, even on cloudy days, and a moisturising lip balm with SPF will work wonders to keep dry, cracked lips at bay.
Stop ignoring health issues that are bothering you
With the often busyness of summer behind you, autumn makes for an excellent time to address health issues that have been bothering you. Don’t ignore persistent symptoms or discomfort – addressing health concerns promptly can help to prevent issues from getting worse before you even know what you’re dealing with.
Whether it’s a nagging pain, digestive issues, or concerns about mental health, you need to talk to a professional and early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in managing health problems effectively. One of the most common issues for men, for example, is erectile dysfunction. It can seriously impact on happiness and self-confidence levels, but there are treatment options out there including medications like Sildenafil, which have been shown to help people with this issue. You can learn more about Sildenafil treatment at Oxford Online Pharmacy (registered online pharmacy) and they also offer fast, discreet shipping.
Stay connected with loved ones
A lot of people start to feel lonelier during the darker, colder months and it’s not difficult to see why, and so stay connected with your loved ones if you want to fight those feelings of loneliness and give your spirits a boost. Arrange virtual or in-person meet-ups with family and friends, even if it’s just for a chat or a cup of tea and be sure to do this on a regular basis.
Declutter and organise your living space
A tidy and organised environment can contribute to a sense of calm and well-being. Go through your belongings and donate or discard items you no longer need and then organise your space in a way that promotes functionality and reduces clutter. A clean and organised living space can have a positive impact on your mental clarity and overall sense of well-being, so don’t delay!
Practice hygge
Hygge (pronounced ‘hoo-gah’) is a Danish concept of embracing cosiness, comfort, and well-being. Embrace hygge during autumn by indulging in simple pleasures like hot cocoa, candlelight dinners, and spending quality time with loved ones. The practice of hygge can help you find joy and contentment in the small moments of life, fostering a sense of warmth and happiness during the cooler months.
Your autumn reminder
Autumn is a season of change and renewal, making it the ideal time to focus on self-care and wellbeing. You can take better care of yourself during this season and beyond by incorporating these easy and practical tips, just remember that self-care is an ongoing journey. Small steps can lead to serious improvements in your well-being, so take the time to nurture yourself this autumn and reap the benefits of a healthier and happier you.
