It’s that time of year, folks. The crisp air and quiet mornings, pumpkin spice-flavored everything, and of course, the endless binge of Gilmore Girls on Netflix. In our incredibly fast-paced world, it’s common for people to feel overwhelmed by the constant stressors of life. And yet, as the September, October, and November months arrive, everything slows down with a perfect stillness.
As temperatures cool (take that as you will living in Florida,) we find ourselves immersed in the so-called “fall aesthetic,” romanticizing the vibrancy of the world around us. Why do we take such pleasure out of this particular season? Simply put, autumn offers a sense of new beginnings, of control. As the colors of the leaves change, we as individuals establish a similar optimistic mindset that we can let go of our old selves.
Much like the cozy autumn feel of the show Gilmore Girls, we take comfort in the excitement of traditional celebrations and time spent with family and friends. We take comfort in simplicity, in nostalgia, and of course, indulging in some of the season’s most delicious treats (iced pumpkin cream chai, anyone?). The fall season has even been proven to offer numerous health benefits, from a reduction in stress levels to a strengthened immune system. The ClinOhio Research Center states that the “vitamins A, C, and E, along with zinc, and other essential minerals found in fall fruits and vegetables, help fortify our immune system.” With this, autumn is most certainly the prime time for achieving those health goals, even if you’ve been dreading that gym visit all year.
Now, as you revel in a steaming mug of hot chocolate or set out on an evening stroll under the pink and orange-painted sky, you’ll feel pleasure in the unique charm of the fall season. While the New Year is technically the time to “start fresh,” the months of September, October, and November are absolutely necessary to pause from the constant hustle of our everyday lives. Use this time to prioritize your well-being and embrace a more positive you!