In my previous article, I explored how the transition from summer to autumn can affect our bodies and minds. Now, let's dive into one of the most effective strategies for navigating these seasonal shifts: establishing a consistent daily routine.
The Power of Routine in Taming Irritability
One of the best ways to support your body and mind during this coming seasonal shift is to establish and maintain a consistent routine. While this may seem simple, a well-structured daily routine can provide crucial stability as we transition from the heat of summer to the cooler, drier days of autumn.
And although you might initially resist the idea of routine, it can be a powerful tool in managing your emotions. Here's why:
1. Nervous System Support: A consistent routine helps calm your nervous system, which positively affects your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
2. Creating Predictability: When your body can anticipate its daily rhythms—like meal times, sleep schedule, and periods of activity—it feels safe and supported.
3. Mental Clarity: A structured day allows your mind to relax, knowing what to expect. This is particularly beneficial going into autumn when more winds and storms may also make you more scatter-brained without you realising why.
4. Sensory Balance: Routine helps take care of your mind and senses, allowing you to stay in control of them rather than letting them control you. It also makes it easier to see things more clearly, preventing stress from building up.
Building Your Autumn Routine
To establish your routine, focus on consistency in these key areas:
1. Wake-up time
2. Meal schedules
3. Bedtime
These basic steps can significantly impact how you feel during the seasonal shift. Practices like alternate nostril breathing can further support your nervous system and overall well-being. Try 3-5 minutes of this breathing practice upon waking or before bed. Follow me in this video for a detailed explanation.
Three Pillars for Daily Balance
In a recent conversation with trauma and grief expert Christine Dernederlanden for her podcast 'Grief Uprooted', we explored how small, intentional changes to your breathing, daily meal times, and sleep patterns can profoundly impact how you cope with the emotional ups and downs of grief.
Watch the interview here to learn about these three simple, actionable steps to enhance your daily routine - and overall well-being - when you’re grieving.
Embracing Change with Grace
It's important to remember that adopting a holistic approach to health often requires us to step out of our comfort zone. Initially, it might feel challenging, inconvenient or even boring. However, by nurturing your mind and senses through a consistent routine, you're laying a strong foundation for navigating not just seasonal shifts, but life's many transitions - including the complex journey of grief.
As we enter this new season, be gentle with yourself. Notice changes in your body and mind, and respond with compassion. Embrace the power of routine to soothe irritability and anger, creating space for balance and healing.
Take a moment to reflect on your current routine. If summer's spontaneity has disrupted your regular patterns, now is an ideal time to reestablish a structured rhythm. Your autumn self will appreciate and benefit from your efforts.