The arrival of fall means cooler weather, changing leaves, and a shift in our routines. As the seasons change from summer to autumn, it’s important to adapt your lifestyle habits to support your health during this transitional period. With kids back in school, schedules getting busier, and less daylight hours, fall brings its own set of challenges when it comes to maintaining healthy habits. Here are some tips to help you adjust your exercise, diet, and sleep routines for the fall season:
Get Ahead of the Time Change
The end of Daylight Savings Time in the fall can disrupt sleep schedules. Start going to bed 15-20 minutes earlier than usual a few weeks before the time change. This will help adjust your circadian rhythms and minimize the impact of the one-hour time difference the morning it takes effect. Making the bedroom cooler and limiting screen time before bed can also improve sleep quality.
Take Advantage of Fall Days
While temperatures start to drop in the fall, there are still plenty of days warm enough for outdoor activities. Take advantage of the fall weather and get outside before it gets too chilly. Go for a hike, walk, or bike ride. You’ll still get a dose of vitamin D from the sunlight and catch scenic views of the fall foliage.
Make Warm, Seasonal Meals
Cooler fall temps call for heartier meals. Incorporate seasonal fall ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, and cranberries into your recipes. Warm soups and stews, baked root vegetables, and apples with cinnamon also hit the spot on chilly fall nights. Going into “hibernation mode” sometimes leads to overeating and weight gain. Ensuring your meals are nutrient dense, and have more volume than calories can help ensure you keep on the right track with any weight management. If you’re having trouble with weight loss and finding the right foods to eat, we can help. 25 Again can support you with structure diet plans and a personalized health journey.
Listen to Your Body
Feeling a little extra sleepy now that it’s getting darker earlier? Or maybe you’re craving comfort foods as the temperature drops? Your body naturally adjusts to changes in daylight, temperature, and seasonal rhythms. Adapt your routine to support what your body needs. If you’re feeling more tired, go to bed earlier. If you’re experiencing cravings, find healthier substitutes that satisfy your body’s needs.
The transition from summer to fall brings many changes, but adapting your routine for the season can help you stay healthy, active, and well-rested. If you’re still feeling groggy, are overweight or just want to be healthier as you age, we can help get your energy and provide a full health assessment. Contact us today!
