Autumn: 5 Tips To Naturally Boost Your Energy
In need of an energy boost this Autumn?
Do you feel low on energy as seasons change? These days, our lives often look the same: whether it’s spring or fall, our daily rhythm doesn’t change much. The one thing that we tend to forget is that humans – just like trees and animals – are part of nature. And the rhythm of nature applies to us, too.
Have a look around and soak up everything that is happening, now that we’re right in the middle of autumn. Leaves fall, animals find their hiding spots. Nature is slowing down. So why aren’t we? Yes, we might put on a warm coat and eventually reach for our gloves and hat. But other than that, our daily rhythm doesn’t change much. Which, if you think about it, is quite unnatural.
Why You Have Less Energy in Darker Months
Less sunlight, more rain. You feel your energy levels dip. You’re tired, but you keep pushing because that’s just what we do, right? What you’re actually doing: constantly swimming up against the stream. It takes a lot of energy, too much energy. Mother nature is following her rhythm. And if we’re open to it, she’s giving us exactly what we need. Of course we can’t all just throw our work schedules over board just because the sun sets earlier. But there are a few simple things that we can do to connect to nature’s rhythm and soak up the magic of autumn.
5 Tips to Naturally Boost Your Energy This Autumn and Winter
- Choose the right way to fuel.
Treat your body well throughout the darker, colder months. Eating and drinking (ice-)cold or raw things actually costs your body quite a lot of energy. So why not steam, cook and generally warm up your food to get nice and cozy from the inside. Now is the time for all your favourite comfort foods! Reach for a warm cup of tea to stay hydrated. Fresh ginger is our favourite – it is packed with anti-oxidants that give your immune system a boost. Plus, if you’re feeling under the weather, fresh ginger tea can help you fight the cold.
- Eat what nature is offering you now.
There’s a reason why banana’s, oranges and other summery fruits don’t grow on trees in your backyard. If you want to maintain your energy levels this autumn, look for regional foods – anything that actually does grow where you are and is in season. For us here in the Netherlands, that means lots of potatoes, cauliflower, kale, pumpkin, apples, pears… Check out your local markets and food vendors to find out what is regionally grown to really get in sync with nature.
- Bundle up to beat the cold.
This one is easy: layer up with all your favourite clothes to stay warm. Pay special attention to your lower back: energetically speaking, getting cold around your lower back can actually drain precious life energy right out of you. That’s why we love some extra warm fabric around our belly and lower back, for example with the double waistband of the Shaktified leggings. So comfy!
- Spring? How about an autumn clean!
We all know about spring cleaning, but what about a proper autumn clean? The trees let go of their old leaves – maybe it’s time we do the same. Is there anything that you want to let go of? This can be physical by literally cleaning and throwing away things. But this can also be a mental or emotional clean up. Let go of what doesn’t serve you. Head into your winter cocoon with a fresh head & heart. This will allow you to bloom even more beautifully once spring comes.
- Slow down.
Nature slows down in autumn – and it’s only natural if you slow down, too. Adjust to the natural rhythm. Do you feel like sleeping more, taking things slow? Try a calming yin yoga practice. If you’re low on energy, give in to what your body is telling you. By listening closely, you can take care much better care of yourself. And come spring, you will feel well rested and refreshed.