10 tips for staying well in the fall

As days become shorter, leaves begin to fall and the smell of pumpkin wafts through the air, we can say that fall has officially arrived. With fall, comes brilliant foliage, golden sunsets, and cooler air. And as night becomes longer and days shorter, we might feel that there is not enough time for ourselves. But let us be reminded that when seasons change, it gives us an opportunity to take care of ourselves. 

Here are ten tips for staying well in the fall.

1. Take time for yourself. With the holidays around the corner - starting from Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas then New Year, we might feel that there’s just not enough time. You’ll get busy with family events and social gatherings. Take time to meditate, take long walks, write in your journal, or even try new routines.

2. Stay rooted in your purpose. During this season, plants lose their foliage, and their energy returns to the roots. People, like plants, can thrive by focusing on our root purpose. This is the time to take a step back and think about our purpose and what truly brings joy and value to our life. This is also the time to express gratitude and set expectations and goals, so once the spring comes, we are ready to blossom.
3. Eat in-season foods. This time of year, fresh fruit and veggies are abundant in grocery stores across the nation. Eating produce that is locally in season results in a higher retention of vitamins and minerals, as the distance travelled from farm to table is much shorter.
4. Stay hydrated. As temperature drops, your body becomes dehydrated easily. Since every part of our body depends on getting a sufficient amount of water in order to function properly, we have to make sure that we are getting enough. Keep your water intake high as fall fades into winter, too.
5. Boost your vitamin D intake. This essential vitamin comes from our exposure to the sun. During the Fall, days are shorter so it’s important to make sure that we are getting enough vitamin D. Since this vitamin plays an important role in immune system function and calcium absorption, supplementing a little extra will help your body get ready for the sunless season. Eating tuna, cheese, egg yolks, liver, and drinking milk are a few ways to get your Vitamin D.
6. Stay active, and healthy. As the weather gets colder, it becomes harder to find motivation to exercise. Switch your normal routine by doing an indoor gym session. Try new activities like yoga, pilates or kickboxing.
7. Boost your immune system. As the weather continues to get colder, the flu season starts so it’s important for your immune system to be in its best shape. Eating food rich in Vitamin C like oranges, broccoli, strawberry, tomatoes, and peppers are key to fighting infections. Almonds, ginger, spinach, and yogurt have also been shown to boost your immune system.
8. Sleep with the natural cycle. As the sun goes down earlier, it can throw off your natural sleeping cycle. Adults need to sleep at least 7 to hours every night. Try to come up with a sleeping schedule that you can maintain for the rest of the year.
9. Stay away from the flu. One way to make sure you won’t get the flu is to schedule your annual flu vaccine. Sanitizing your favorite things and keeping your sanitizer nearby also helps you to stay away from the flu. The best way to avoid germs is to scrub your hands with soapy water but if it’s not possible, hand sanitizer is your second best option.
10. Enjoy the weather. With beautiful foliage, cooler weather, there’s no better time to enjoy the outdoors. Taking a walk in nature can boost your energy, improve your mood, and enhance your creativity while also giving you relaxing vibes.