Fall-ing into Healthy Habits

The change in temperature, vibrant leaves on trees, and the wind down to the end of the year – it must be fall. It’s the perfect opportunity to pause and reflect on what you’ve accomplished this year and what healthy habits you’d like to create for the rest of the year. Let’s explore five easy ways to “fall” into wellness this season. 

Scan the Aisles for Seasonal Foods

This fall, nourish your body from the inside out with nutritious foods that are in season – particularly produce options. Fall is often associated with harvest for good reason! From hearty squash, bright beets, and broccoli to crisp apple varieties, fresh figs, and cranberries, this season offers a variety of delicious options. Make it fun and incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables into your fall recipes for a burst of flavor and essential nutrients.

Get Outdoors

Mild temperatures beg for time spent in the beauty of nature. Take yourself and your family or friends outside with walks, hikes, reading, dining, or local community-organized festivals and events. Outdoor activities can boost your mood, relieve stress, increase your physical activity, and provide a refreshing change of scenery.  

Don’t Sleep on Sleep

You can always work on improving your sleep habits. Bedtime is important so you can stay healthy, maintain energy and focus, and obtain adequate rest. With daylight savings hitting mid-fall for most, it’s a great time to focus on improving your sleep habits aiming to get eight hours nightly. Create a calming bedtime routine during cooler evenings that lead into the winter months - dim the lights, reduce screen time, and prepare for a restful sleep.  

Set New Goals

Take some time to think of goals you’d like to set or achieve before the year closes out. Reassess your health goals and reflect on what is most important to you. Want to exercise more and be less sedentary, maintain a healthier weight, practice mindfulness? Whatever it might be, use fall to set realistic goals and act. Progress, not product!

Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude

Winding down towards the end of the year is an opportune time for reflection and gratitude. Take the pressure off to perfect your health and wellness, instead just take a few minutes each day to settle into the moment. Notice where you are, take in your senses, and take some deep breaths while feeling thankful for the season and where you are in your health journey. This simple practice can enhance your mental health, reduce stress, and promote a more positive outlook as the days grow shorter.

Take advantage of the season to encourage healthy habits. Fall into healthy habits like eating seasonal foods, getting outside, and expressing gratitude. Just as the leaves change, your healthy habits can too!