Fall has always been a bit of a mixed bag for me. On one hand, there’s the excitement of pulling out my favorite sweaters and boots, the smell of pumpkin spice everywhere, and the joy of seeing the trees transform into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows. On the other hand, there’s the looming threat of shorter days, colder weather, and the dreaded end of daylight saving time. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to manage my mental health during this transition. Here’s my playful, honest take on surviving (and thriving) through the fall season.

The Magic of Light Therapy (and Fairy Lights)

Let’s talk about light. I’m not a morning person, and the darker mornings can make getting out of bed feel like an epic quest. Enter: my light therapy box. It’s like a little piece of the sun that I can turn on whenever I need a boost. I sit in front of it while having my morning coffee, and it’s amazing how it lifts my spirits.

But let’s not forget the joy of fairy lights. I have them strung up all over my living room, and there’s something so comforting about their warm glow. When the evenings start earlier, I switch them on and it feels like I’m wrapped in a cozy blanket of light. It’s the little things, right?

Getting Moving: The Great Leaf Crunch Adventure

Exercise and I have a love-hate relationship. But fall has a secret weapon: the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot. There’s nothing quite like a brisk walk through a park, kicking up leaves and feeling like a kid again. I also make it a point to go hiking on the weekends. The trails are less crowded, and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Plus, I feel like a woodland explorer, complete with flannel shirt and thermos of hot cider.

Routine: The Unsung Hero

Maintaining a routine is my secret weapon against the fall blues. I’m a night owl, but I’ve found that sticking to a consistent sleep schedule works wonders for my mood. I set an alarm for the same time every day (yes, even on weekends) and try to get to bed at a reasonable hour. It’s not always easy, but it helps keep my internal clock in check.

And let’s talk food. I’m a sucker for comfort food, and fall is the perfect excuse to indulge in hearty soups, stews, and, of course, pumpkin everything. But I’ve learned to balance it out with plenty of fresh fruits and veggies. There’s nothing like a crisp apple or a bunch of grapes to brighten up a gloomy day.

Self-Care: The Cozy Edition

Self-care is my go-to strategy for maintaining mental health, and fall provides endless opportunities for cozy self-care. I love curling up with a good book and a blanket, or having a movie marathon with a pile of snacks. I’ve also started a new tradition of weekly bubble baths with scented candles and soothing music. It’s my little sanctuary from the world.

Staying Connected

Finally, staying connected with friends and family is crucial. As the weather gets colder, it’s tempting to hibernate, but I make an effort to reach out and stay social. Whether it’s a virtual coffee date, a phone call, or a socially-distanced walk, these connections remind me that I’m not alone.

Fall is a season of change, and while it can be tough on mental health, it also offers unique opportunities for joy and coziness. By embracing the light, staying active, maintaining a routine, indulging in self-care, and staying connected, I’ve learned to navigate this transition with a smile. So here’s to fall – may your leaves be crunchy, your sweaters be cozy, and your heart be light.

What are your favorite ways to embrace the fall season?