A Graceful Transition

Sweater Weather is Here

In case you missed the onslaught of pumpkin-spiced lattes talk and you haven’t been outside yet this month, I’m here to share that Fall is officially HERE. Yes, friends, we are in the midst of another seasonal transition, especially felt here in Philadelphia. The Summer to Fall transition that can be joyful and easy for some and challenging for others. There are the obvious and natural transitions that we make: adding a scarf, a hat, and embracing this phenomenon called “sweater weather.”

I have a question for you. Are you leaning into, or ignoring the signs of the shift? There’s such a sense of momentum this time of year as we see all the holiday decorations hitting the shelves at once. Our outer environment certainly doesn’t support what the life science of Ayurveda recommends that we do: SLOW DOWN. When you get caught up in the excitement and momentum, sometimes it’s hard to hear the signals that you need to pay attention to so you’re feeling your most vibrant this time of year.

Signs of the Season Shift

Here are some signs that you need to focus on a little more TLC in this Fall transition:

• Your digestion is feeling off
• Your skin is getting really dry or your joints are cracking quite a bit
• You feel more anxious as of late, perhaps even having anxiety attacks
• You’re feeling scattered and distracted
• You feel rundown or have gotten sick

Transition Tools

If you identify with one or many of this list, it’s time to give your body and mind more tools to navigate this transition with grace and ease. Here are some ideas for you!

1. Let Food be Your Medicine. Typically, what is coming from the Earth each season is something that can support your well-being. Root down and ground with things that are growing in and close to the earth: sweet potatoes, pumpkins, squash, apples, and dark leafy greens. Try this amazing Creamy Cashew Carrot Ginger Soup for an easy comfort food dinner. 
2. Stay warm inside and outside. Time to put on your hat and put away the iced water. I recommend that everything you’re putting on or in your body is supporting it in staying warm; warm teas, warm meals, and warm clothing. 
3. Treat yourself to a healthy version of your favorite pumpkin spice latte! Well + Good gives you great ideas on how to order this out and how to make it at home!
4. SLOW DOWN on and off your yoga mat. Try these slower and more restorative styles of yoga that will be perfect for your body this time of year: Yin, Hatha Flow, Gentle, and Restorative. Check out this practice from our favorite Yoga with Adrienne that focuses on grounding when anxiety arises.
5. Stop multitasking! Channel the energy of the snail and slow down so you don’t get swept away. Walking slower, reducing multitasking, and minimizing distractions will greatly support your mind in slowing down.