As the temperature drops, some of us are hyped for those cooler autumnal training sessions – digging out the jumpers from our favourite brands, bringing a flask of tea or coffee out on the street sesh, and doing a UK wide tour of the indoor facilities across the UK as the wet weather slowly ruins your sessions over the winter months.
But for those of us who love the summer and the warmth, the shorter daylight hours and cold snaps can be a real downer.
As we transition seasons, it's crucial to dial in to how you're feeling mentally.
Summer's Over...
We've all been soaking up those endless summer days, making the most of those long sessions in the sun.
As we move into autumn and winter, it's natural to feel a bit bummed about saying peace out to those bright, sunny sessions.
Some of us might even get hit with the seasonal blues, especially during the colder months.
Just remember, if you're dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), it's more than just having a seasonal fave – it's a legit mental health condition.
We've put together some tips to keep your mental game strong this autumn!
1.) Find Happiness In The Small Things!
Even though autumn's not all sunshine (literally and metaphorically), there are some great things to look forward to. For me, this is being able to pull out my favourite beanies and sweatshirts. I am a sucker for a beanie.
Focus on what really makes you happy over the autumn winter months, and embrace it!
2.) Take Time To Chill!
Summer can be an overwhelming grind with travel, responsibilities, and non-stop social action. Autumn is prime time to slow it down and take care of yourself. Focus on the basics of good health: sleep, food, and exercise. Take time to eat some good foods, make sure you're sleeping enough (and at reasonable times!) and try an squeeze some light training or some light gym sessions in! Take it easy and go at your own pace!
3.) Try Something New!
Training over the autumn and winter months might be seriously limited... the weather (especially in the UK) is unpredictable. You cannot trust the weather app (BBC Weather is the worst!). This would be a brilliant time to try something new. Learn a new skill, you could try writing/journalling, or pick up your camera that you use to film all your videos and get shooting! Why not take a look at local evening clubs or classes to get out the house, meet new people, and make the most of those long, dark nights.
4.) Stay Social!
It's tempting to go full hibernation mode when it gets chilly, but any kind of exercise can be super beneficial to your mental health. Even a quick solo training session on your way back from work, or hitting the local gym for some light box jumps can boost your mood and keep you amped, no matter the weather.
5.) Set a Routine!
When you're spending more time indoors, it's easy to feel lost. Believe me, I struggle with this all the time when working from home!
What I have found helps is creating a routine, and sticking to that routine to keep ourselves in check. Keep up with post-work training sessions, or lock in set days to meet up with your friends (It doesn't have to be training! It can be coffee, going for a walk, or having a kick around in the mark!). Having a routine keeps you in the groove and focused.
6.) Stay Connected!
Shorter days can mean less hang time with your crew, but that doesn't mean you're on your own. Stay in touch with your friends, loved ones, and family to battle those lonely feelings.
You don't have to spend all your time indoors – there are plenty of outdoor events in the autumn, like bonfire nights and fireworks. Plus, with the beautiful colours that the leaves are turning into, it's prime time for strolls and hikes.
If you're feeling the pressure or worried about a friend, don't hesitate to reach out for mental health support. There are plenty of services and people out there who've got your back.
You can visit our helplines page (linked here) for mental health services and helplines, no matter what country you're in!
