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While many of us are excited about the fall, a season synonymous with coziness, pumpkin spice and warmth, a common side effect that comes with the change in weather is autumn burnout. Some of you may already be familiar with the term, while others may have experienced it but haven’t quite defined what it is.
“Autumn burnout” or “autumn fatigue” is the seasonal change that leaves our bodies with an underlying feeling of anxiety or stress that inevitably burns us out. While this isn’t interchangeable with seasonal affective disorder (SAD), the symptoms are quite similar and occur around the same time of year. Many of us are returning to work with post-vacation blues from the summer. The weather starts to drop and while a nice breeze feels pleasant, that paired with shorter daylight hours affects our circadian rhythm. This fatigue leaves us less motivated in work, our social batteries die a little faster and in some cases it can affect our ability to even take care of ourselves.
While there isn’t much to report on how many people on average are affected by autumn burnout, Google searches for the term and others related to it increased by 348% at the start of the season. On average every year, about 5% of people in the US are affected by SAD, and it’s more prevalent in young adult women that live in regions further from the equator. These statistics show us that there is a chance this is more prevalent than we realize, and the only way to really combat it is to adjust our lifestyle to the season.
Focus on building a night routine to help you wind down earlier in the evenings for better sleep. This also gives you proper rest and can allow you to start your days earlier and get more sunlight earlier in the day. I love using aromatherapy to help me wind down. You could either invest in a good diffuser or find candles that include essential oils like Lavender or Sandalwood. Also consider other variables that affect your sleep. Invest in pajamas that are breathable but still keep you warm or quality sheets to make your sleep environment more comfortable.
As much as this season is about focusing on you and making sure you prioritize your own rest, some of the best ways to recharge include your loved ones. This season, focus less on going out and plan more social gatherings at home or with smaller and closer friend groups. Think paint and sips where all you need is some paint and a canvas (this doesn’t even have to be an actual canvas, think outside the box with wine glasses, phone cases, shirts — the world’s your canvas), potlucks where everyone bring food on fall themed platters, movie nights, and so much more.
This time of year has many nicknames — spooky season, sweater weather — but how about soup season? There is nothing more therapeutic than making a pot of soup with your favorite ingredients, cupping the warm bowl and sipping some soup while you watch a good comfort movie. I use fresh ingredients from the farmers market, break out a good dutch oven, like one from Le Creuset, and make bigger batches that I can use for leftovers so I don't have to worry about cooking and cleaning up every meal.
It’s easy to stay dormant around this time and not feel the motivation to move around, but this is when I really try to focus on following a workout schedule. One of my favorite exercises to incorporate at least once a week is a yoga flow, either in a class or through an at-home routine. The idea behind this is building your core strength and getting movement, but also following a practice that focuses on incorporating meditation as part of it to help rest your mind.
A nice loose fitting long sleeve top is great for cold weather workouts to keep you warm but not too warm. This is a great basic to carry into the gym or to your favorite workout class as an extra layer.
Alo leggings are great quality for any work, but especially for a good yoga flow or pilates class. They’re comfortable with a flattering fit, and super easy to move around and work out in while staying comfortable.
Persimmon Figural Pumpkin Petite Cocotte
Le Creuset’s quality goes without saying. Their cocottes are great when it comes to distributing heat evenly.
Luxe Plush Halloween Tank Top & Pant PJ Set
Nothing gives you more of a boost of serotonin than a cute pair of autumnal pajamas. This set from American Eagle isn’t just adorable, but is super soft and comfortable for a good night's sleep.
Bamboo sateen sheets are usually quite nice and breathable. The fabric stays cool, which is good to regulate your body’s temperature while you’re sleeping. This set from Urban Outfitters is both simple and elegant, while still keeping you comfortable at night.
