Why Does Autumn Evoke Such Feeling?

Whether you love the feeling of autumn, or if it makes your seasonal depression start coming on, pretty much everyone can agree that there is something atmospheric about the fall season.

It starts with the crisp morning air in September, and before you know it, the leaves have started to turn. As they reach their new home on the ground, their decomposition releases a sweet fragrance in the air that leaves you craving cozy comforts of the season. If you’re lucky, this is a nostalgic feeling of comfort, but for some, it brings on a feeling of anxiousness over the coming of darkness. Today I share with you some strategies for embracing the change of seasons.

While the absence of sunlight can certainly leave our brains low on Vitamin D, we can trick our minds by lighting up our homes. There’s no denying the calm feeling that takes over when some gentle lighting like a fireplace, decorative string lights, or candles envelope our senses. Since ancient times, our minds are wired to find comfort in light and warmth during times of darkness. Seeing gentle lights like these releases dopamine and allows a sense of happiness and peace to take over. In addition to the light provided by candles, our brains are also very attuned to scents. Choose a candle that has a scent that reminds you of good times and warmth, such as vanilla, balsam fir, or apple scents. Scents of comfort to us also release dopamine and serotonin, which are mood-boosters as well!

In addition to seeking these tangible comforts, allow time for your body to rest. This is a season for slowing down, for letting go of the business of summer, and to start to turn inward for rest and self-preservation. It can be a great opportunity to start prioritizing self-care, including building a sustainable plan for movement during the rainy months, like starting a weekly yoga routine, or regular trips into the forest. Being purposeful in these first few weeks of autumn can save you from falling into a winter slump of inactivity.

And of course, living on the island, we’re in for a shift into rainier weather. If grey skies get you down, come up with some things that you can enjoy during the rainier months. Maybe you embrace the gentle sound of rain with a good book and hot cup of coffee or tea, or perhaps you prefer to cozy up for a good movie with your dog. Regardless of what relaxation looks like for you, welcome the sound of the rain and all the benefits it brings. For humans, the rhythmic sound of rain can create a sense of calmness and relaxation, lowering stress hormones. And for the rest of the planet, plants and animals have been waiting for the rain all year. The more rain we get, the safer the island is for everyone come spring!

With these comforts in mind, I hope that you will find some moments of peace and happiness this autumn!