Back to Basics – Get Back Into Routine This Fall
Anyone else feeling appreciative that its fall? The end of the summer has always been a bit of a melancholy time, but this year it feels different! After a year of earlier bedtimes, and less socializing, the summer was overwhelming for many. By the end of August, many were feeling burned out from the steep increase in socialization, travel, late nights, and alcohol that the summer brings. Although these are all good things, many patients seem to be more than ready for summer to be over and to get back to their routines.
Despite being a very stressful year in countless ways, it was also a more restful year for many. Fewer options or reasons to be out late, and limited gatherings for celebration meant more regular bedtimes, less binge consumption patterns for food and alcohol, and generally a lot less forcing ourselves to do things we may not have had the energy to do. If you have a stronger introverted side, there was also a lot less stress as relaxing came with almost non-existent fear of missing out, or guilt for not doing more.
Whether you’re feeling well-rested, or burnt out from the summer, fall is a great time to sink back into a regular routine and a chance to “start fresh”. If you, like many, are participating in a fall reset this year, here are a few tips to help you reestablish a healthy routine:
- Set a bed time for yourself. With more daylight hours in the summer, it is very common for our bedtimes to get later and later as the window of opportunity for activity lengthens. Start prioritizing a regular bedtime to help you recharge for your next day.
- Set boundaries around your time. Check in with yourself and your motivations to do what you are doing. Notice when your energy is getting drained, and prioritize yourself! More is not always more.
- Enjoy more homemade meals. As we are out of the home so much more in the summer, we often eat out and on the go. Pick out some fun recipes, and try to include healthy proteins and more nutrient dense foods in your grocery list.
- Love your liver. Incorporate something daily that helps your body to optimize detoxification and reduce inflammation. Some great ways of doing this are increasing your water consumption, getting exercise, using a dry brush for lymphatic brushing, or taking a liver supplement.
- Check in with your health care provider. The fall is a great time to check in with your goals around health in particular. Having a trusted person who can help support you in better understanding your current state of health, as well as facilitate your health goals, is extremely beneficial.
If you need any help establishing a plan for your health goals, know that we are always here to help. Small consistent changes can go a long way! To book in for a naturopathic consultation with Dr. Brett Simpson, ND call (604) 974-8999 or email [email protected] today.
Wishing everyone a very peaceful and contented fall season!
