There’s comfort in knowing that the seasons will change in a predictable way. The daylight is shrinking but knowing that this will not last and that it’s part of a well-worn cycle brings me peace. Even when our climate and society are in chaos, the natural world will prepare for winter, just like it always does. I want some of that natural harmony and energy.
More Darkness, More Sleep
While nature is changing it’s routines for the autumn, maybe it’s time for me to develop some new routines in-line with the season? I didn’t have this luxury when I was teaching. Instead of forcing myself to get up when it’s still dark outside because “this is the time I get up,” I can be more flexible. I can sleep when it’s dark outside and choose to get the sleep my body needs in this new season.
Research into the area of chronobiology – the study of how our body regulates sleep and wakefulness – supports the idea that during winter, our sleep needs and preferences change, and the constraints of modern life might be particularly ill-fitting during these months.“*
– Laurie Clarke, Wired, 09.12.2019
Getting sufficient sleep for this season strengthens my immune system** and that’s not a bad thing now that I’m indoors more often and exposed to all those cold and flu germs.
Sweater Weather
Taking my cue from the squirrels in my yard, I can gather and eat seasonal veggies. Nothing signals colder weather like a pot of butternut squash soup or a big batch of eggplant chilli. Add in some fresh bread and I’m very happy with the change in the season. I can find some extra pillows for the sofa and a blanket, and tunnel past the sandals to find my slippers in the back of the closet. There are joys in changing menus and embracing “sweater weather” now that I’m not tied to a rigid work schedule.
Crunchy Walks
The routine I most look forward to in the autumn is going for afternoon walks: the sunshine, the beautiful, crisp air and the colourful fall leaves crunching underfoot. I can change my routine and banished sweaty, summer evening walks to next year. There is that comfort of a cycle continually moving around. Aligning my routine with the natural world around me is feasible these days and it brings me joy.
What are some changes that you make to your routines to acknowledge the start of autumn? Comment below.
*https://www.wired.co.uk/article/winter-work-hours-shorter-circadian-clock
**https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/expert-answers/lack-of-sleep/faq-
***https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/hormone-highs-and-lows-follow-a-seasonal-pattern/
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