September-A Time of Transition for All of Us ~ Tips to Help for Optimal Mind and Body Health
“The leaves fall, the wind blows, and the farm country slowly changes from the summer cottons into its winter wools.” - Henry Beston
September is a month of transition as it marks the end of summer and the beginning of fall. It is a time when the days start to get shorter and the nights longer and there is less available sunlight. September is also a time when many people (children and adults) return to school or work after summer vacation, which can be a big change for some people. Getting back into routines with school and work can be challenging and require a period of adjusting to the previous structure. The weather also starts to change during September, with cooler temperatures, and the days become shorter and shorter. We also know that holidays are on the horizon which generates many different thoughts and feelings as well.
As we endeavor to get back into the swing of things, below are some tips to help us have a smooth transition into September and the upcoming Fall:
Get ahead of the upcoming seasonal transition time by developing, identifying, and planning new routines and activities. Investigate and explore opportunities for learning and connection with other people. Think about getting involved with volunteer activities. It is typical to feel somewhat “out of control” when unplanned transitions occur, so attempting to recognize what you can control vs. what you cannot control and taking action in these areas can be helpful.
Reframe the upcoming seasonal change to identify the positives. Look for the beauty in the upcoming fall season. Even when change is unwanted or unplanned, it is likely that there are some positive aspects of the change. Identifying potential benefits or positive outcomes may allow you to develop a new fresh perspective on the situation.
Engage in self-care practices: Caring for ourselves during times of change is critical. Engaging in basic forms of self-care, such as engaging in daily movement (walking outside, Yoga, swimming, etc.), getting enough sleep (7-9 hours per night), eating nutritious whole foods, taking appropriate vitamins, can drastically improve our body’s response during transitions.
If you suffer with Seasonal Affective Disorder, dig out your Full Spectrum Bright Light and make sure it is in working order. Light Therapy — which involves sitting close to a special light source every morning for at least 30 minutes — can help improve SAD. Check out www.sunbox.com or go to Amazon.com to order a full spectrum light. Just make sure it is 10,000 Lux or it will not be effective.
There is some evidence that a Negative Ion Generator may help relieve symptoms of depression. When negative ions reach the bloodstream, they create a reaction that increases our Serotonin levels (feel good neurotransmitter) increasing our mood and helping us to fight depression. This process makes these negative ions work as a natural antidepressant. Negative Ions are abundant in nature in forests, waterfalls, oceans, water. Get outside, bring plants inside.
Antidepressant medications may or may not be an option that you want to try to assist with mood support. Medications for depression, anxiety, and insomnia carry the risk of unwanted side effects or dependence and may not prove to be effective or may be only partially effective. Alternatives to prescription medications including herbal and other remedies such as St. John’s Wort, SAM-e, Saffron, B-Vitamins, Acupuncture, Biofeedback, Tapping, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have been shown to be beneficial in helping with seasonal mood changes. These interventions should always be discussed with your medical provider, not Dr. Google!
Alpha-Stim is another option for mood/insomnia/pain support. It is FDA cleared medical device that has been proven time and again, since the 1980’s, to safely and effectively treat depression. It uses a modality called cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES), rather than drugs, to treat your depression. A tiny current of electricity is transmitted through two ear clip electrodes, restoring balance to your brain and making you feel better. Treatments are painless and easy, there are no side effects, and treatments can be done in the comfort of your own home. The effectiveness of Alpha-Stim’s patented waveform is backed by over 100 clinical research studies, and patients rave about their success. Visit https://www.tcc4change.com/alpha-stim for more information.
Art Journaling can help you let go of whatever it is that is weighing you down, helping you relax your mind and body. From boosting your self-esteem, providing you with a safe channel to express your emotions to giving you a sense of control over what you want, art journaling acts as a form of self-care and healing.
Seek support: Reach out to others. Don’t isolate during times of difficulty, as engaging in social activities is known to provide numerous positive health and mood benefits. Friends and family are often willing to help, and support may also be gained from others experiencing the same thing. Counseling and support groups (online and in person) can be extremely helpful.
