A beautiful walk in Louisville.
The fall season is here! Cooler days, beautiful fall colors, and plenty of festivities and fall harvests are right around the corner. But did you know that the fall season also brings physical and mental health benefits?
There are many benefits of the fall season, both for our physical and mental well-being.
Heading outdoors, exercising, and breathing fresh air are all vital to keeping us happy and healthy. The changes that the fall season brings can allow us to feel more clear-headed, calm and rejuvenated. Fall also welcomes us to enjoy the cooler temperatures and take part in outdoor activities, get more rest, and feel recharged.
Let’s talk about a few health benefits of the fall season.
1. Sleep and Rest
The days are getting shorter, and the earlier nighttime prepares our bodies to slow down and get more rest. Quality sleep and rest are so important for our mental and physical health.
2. Exercise
You don’t have to become a marathon runner to get the benefits of exercise. Light exercise like walking, biking, raking leaves, apple picking at the orchard, or visiting the pumpkin patch all count as exercise. Get your body moving in ways that feel good to you. No need to overdo it! Even getting outside for a short walk a few times a week can work wonders for your mental health.
3. Changing Scenery
When life gets busy, it can be hard to slow down. This fall season, take some time to be present and notice your surroundings. Enjoying the beautiful colors of fall while you’re out on your walk or bike ride will give you an extra mental boost.
The colors of fall — reds, oranges and yellows — can actually boost our moods. Color therapy, also called chromotherapy, is a recognized therapy based on how different colors affect our moods. Try noticing the vibrant colorful leaves, take a walk at the park when the leaves are at peak foliage, or arrange some fall flowers for a quick mood booster. Experiment with different activities and see what colors speak to you.
4. Fall Foods
Food markets will soon be full of fall harvest foods that are nourishing and nutritious for the body and brain. Consider trying a new fall food that you don’t normally eat, like spaghetti squash or pomegranates. Changing up your routine by trying something new is great for mental health, too.
You don’t have to overhaul your habits either. Simply adding some nutritious fall foods to your current diet can give you the nutrients you need for better health and increased energy.
Take It One Step at a Time
When you’re looking to improve any part of your life, the road to getting there can seem overwhelming. Remember that small steps really add up.
Simply taking a slow walk in a park or listening to the sounds of nature for just five minutes can boost your mental health. It doesn’t have to be a momentous effort. Start really small and you might be surprised at the benefits you receive!
What are you planning to do this fall? Let us know in the comments below!