How do you view the seasons?
For me, winter is a time of reverence, spring a time of renewal, summer a time of resolve, and then autumn is a time of reflection and reassessment.
In our busy lives, personal and professional, it can help to take action with the seasons. When spring arrives we can review our vision and set goals so that during the summer months we can put these in place, get things done, and resolve to make a difference. Then when autumn arrives, we can spend time reflecting on what we planned in the spring, what we did in the summer, and what we plan to do better, or more of, in the future. Finally, I find that winter is the perfect time to think, be thankful and show gratitude.
But let’s look at autumn in more detail, aside from the falling leaves, walks in the woods, cosy fires, and warming cups of cocoa.
Autumn: a time for rest and renewal
While I love walking at all times of the year, I do find that walking in autumn provides true rest and renewal. The beauty of the leaves as they change colour and fall to the ground, and the sound of crunching leaves if I walk on a frosty morning, provide the signals that winter is on its way. At this time of year, growth is stilled, harvests are complete, and all of life begins a period of rest and renewal.
We all know that growth, personal and professional, can be arduous. Nature’s periods of stillness are necessary and fruitful and I feel that God may have created autumn to be so beautiful to help our renewal, helping us prepare for our next season of growth.
Autumn: a time of reflection
I also feel that autumn is a great time to let go and reflect in line with the fallen, decomposing leaves which signify the past. So I take time to reflect, not with regret but mindfully, to re-evaluate my situation and life in general. Reflect on what truly matters to you, consider your goals for the coming year, identify the steps you must take to meet these goals and embrace any changes you feel are required.
I find that the crisp autumn air encourages you to take care of your well-being, so get outdoors and remember that a healthy body and mind will lead to a happier, healthier and more productive YOU.
Why not write down your reflections in a journal? Here are some questions to reflect on:
- What has happened in the last year of my life?
- How have I grown?
- What have I learned?
- How have I contributed to others and the world?
- What positive qualities do I see within myself?
- What and who am I grateful for?
Your answers should help you prepare for the months and the next year ahead. So be reflective at this time of year and attune to the beautiful autumn season.
Autumn: a time to reset
Along with the rest, renewal and reflection, autumn is also your time to reset and embrace change after the carefree days of summer. As you watch the trees let go of their leaves, you can let go of habits that no longer fit YOU. After your reassessment, you can refocus, recharge your personal and/or work life, and embrace all the hope on the horizon.
Autumn well-being
The arrival of autumn can affect many aspects of your well-being. The darker days and cooler weather can take a toll on your mood and energy levels. If you struggle at this time of year it is important to acknowledge how you are feeling and as a coach I can reassure you that resting, reflecting and resetting can help. Look after yourself if you find this season difficult, so focus on self-care, get cosy, focus on what you enjoy, prioritise sleep and eating well, and don’t let the colder weather prevent you from getting outdoors.
As a well-being coach, I can help empower you, and help you break free if you find autumn has a depressive grip on you. Together we can work to build your resilience to enable you to love autumn.
Final thoughts
Embrace the beauty of autumn and all that it brings! Let go of things that belong in the past, follow and connect with the autumnal transition and appreciate things that make you happy and alive.
If you struggle with a drop in mood and energy when autumn arrives, focus on the fact that without autumn we would not have all the positive aspects of spring to look forward to.
I hope this helps.
If you’re struggling with your autumn well-being and need further help, please get in touch and I can guide you through this difficult time through mentoring and well-being coaching.