Last Days of Summer
Today marks both the end of the astronomical summer season and the autumn equinox, signaling another turning point in the year. As we bid farewell to the long, sun-soaked, carefree days of summer, we welcome the subtle beauty of autumn. The shift brings shorter days, cosy evenings, and the promise of crisp, frosty mornings. There’s something comforting in the slower pace of this season — the warm glow of candles and fairy lights, the rustling of fallen leaves, and the embrace of soft jumpers and hot drinks.
Yet, as much as I love this time of year, it also serves as a reminder of how the changing seasons can impact our health, both physically and mentally. The reduction in daylight hours and the gradual fading of the sun can disrupt our internal body clocks. This can lead to disturbances in sleep patterns, leaving us feeling more fatigued and sluggish as we adjust to the darker mornings and evenings.
For many, the lack of sunlight triggers a change in mood, sometimes manifesting in the form of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression linked to seasonal changes. As the bright, vibrant energy of summer gives way to the mellow tones of autumn, it’s common to feel more introspective or subdued. The drop in serotonin levels, influenced by reduced exposure to natural light, can heighten feelings of sadness or lethargy.
However, the shift to autumn doesn’t have to be daunting. There are simple yet effective ways to counter the effects of the season. Spending time outdoors during daylight hours, even if the sun isn’t shining as brightly, can help keep our internal clocks in sync. Embracing activities that nurture the soul, like reading by a fire or candle light, cooking warming meals, or engaging in mindfulness practices, can bring comfort as the days grow cooler.
While autumn may mark the end of summer's vibrancy, it offers its own unique rhythm, one that invites reflection and rest. So, as we transition into this new season, let's welcome the changes with open arms, finding balance between the energy of the warmer months and the peaceful moments that autumn brings.