Happy Halloween

Autumn, for many of us is a happy, fun, creative, energizing, time of year. Yet, the end of the never-ending days filled with sunshine and transitioning to shorter, darker ones, can stir emotions. The autumn air is invigorating, the colors are brilliant, bonfires, warm cider and cozy sweaters take the place of the summer air, sandals and sundresses. We excitedly, or reluctantly trade in one magical season for another. Here in New England, this is what we know, what we love and, what we sometimes hate.

Only a very small child does not understand that change is inevitable. Still, we adults still resist what we think we may not be ready for. Conversations spin out about apprehension of the cold and incoming winter, or how beautiful the falling leaves are and getting revved up for ski/snowboard season. We try and get in those last days of apple picking in, and grab that perfect carving pumpkin. We New Englanders' love that aroma of pies baking at the local markets, cinnamon candles burning, and that morning coffee never tasted so damn good.

However, some of us get a little blue, and some 3 million people in the U.S. experience S.A.D, (Seasonal Affective Disorder). I myself, love the cold and get a natural high in September and October, but very soon after October 31st, I sometimes slightly fall apart. Autumn wears on and the light moves farther and farther away. I start to countdown to Winter Solstice, increase my intake of Vitamin D3 and get a bit desperate for the sun. No sunlamps for this "chicky," as they trigger migraines. Therefore, it is imperative for me to provide to myself superb self care. As the sun goes to sleep earlier, and the last of the leaves fall from the trees, take advantage of this transition in the seasons, to turn inward for healing, reconnecting, and grounding. Accepting that this is just a different phase of the sun, seasons and life, can give us a different perspective, and allow us to relax, renew, and restore in this chapter of the four seasons.

"Into the future. Let what will be, be." Robert Frost, Acceptance

Here is a list of things that promote self care for Fall season;

Decorating, adding a little color goes a long way.

Reorganize closets, reducing clutter, this helps stress level

D3, Extra Zinc, Sam-e, Kava Tea, Honey Ginger Tea,

A little extra Calcium and Magnesium Citrate at night.

Essential oils, use what speaks to you. In fall/winter I love Peppermint an Thieves or a Cinnamon oil.

Salt Lamps

Keep windows open just slightly even on cold days for a couple of hours to reduce household air pollution.

Get out for walks whenever possible.

Keeping socially connected, helps you stay grounded. Even a phone call or lunch date with your bestie!

Grounding Yoga poses. Supporting Reclining Twist, (Salamba Bharadvajasana), Restorative Child Pose, (Balasana)

Treat yourself to a Hot Stone Massage, or a Warm Bamboo Body Treatment.

Warm organic vegetable soups. A variety of whole foods. Eat the rainbow.

Drink lots of water and keep moving.