The trees are slowly turning soft shades of orange and red. Mother Nature is getting ready for her regular time of rest. Can you feel the change in the air?
Human beings need respite and replenishment too. Like our planet, we function best with enriching nourishment and restful downtime.
What keeps you busy?
Scheduled commitments and activities as well as our regular responsibilities often distract us from recognizing when we are depleted. We suddenly realize we are running on empty, often by being sick.
Sometimes we are empty from giving more than we get.
When I returned from Hawaii I was exhausted and talked to my coach about this. My life both enriches and depletes me, and my coach is encouraging me to nourish myself for the next month or so, before I travel again.
Here are some ideas to get you and me going.
ADD EARTH COLOURED CLOTHES TO YOUR WARDROBE
The Fall warm tones of brown, green, orange and soft red or yellow bring us a deeper connection to the Earth. Incorporate some of these into your wardrobe and notice if you feel more relaxed and grounded.
EAT MORE EARTH RICH FOODS
Fresh fall foods such as root vegetables and squash help us feel full and add to our well-being. Make soup or stew with lentils and pulses to encourage a feeling of contentment. Fresh hot bread or warm milky drinks are also deeply nourishing when we feel depleted.
TRY SOME EARTH OR GROUNDING ACTIVITIES
Sometimes just doing nothing is the magic that boosts your energy. Or sitting quietly reading a book with some warm tea. On one of those cooler mornings or evenings, wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, or put on your favourite cozy sweater to enjoy that sense of feeling good inside.
Sometimes it takes more movement to replenish our soul. Our bodies crave that endorphin high of exercise and this might mean morning yoga, dancing to your favourite tunes, or a walk in some trees.
SET NEW GROUNDED BOUNDARIES
We often feel depleted because we have been giving too much and our cup is empty. Notice if there are people who tend to take from you and don’t return the favour. If you’re always the one making the call, offering to go to them, or helping them out, maybe it’s time to take a breather. Energetically we need reciprocity to enjoy an authentically loving relationship.
CREATE A GRATITUDE PRACTICE
I am a fairly consistent grateful person, but I always believe there’s room for improvement. Consider sharing gratitude with loved ones, at work or online each day and nourish yourself with positive self talk.
As we navigate the changing seasons, I encourage you to explore one of the suggestions I’ve shared—whether it’s adding earthy tones to your wardrobe, savouring nourishing fall foods, engaging in soul-soothing activities, setting healthy boundaries, or embracing gratitude. Each of these practices can bring a sense of peace and rejuvenation.
Choose one that resonates with you and see how it transforms your energy and spirit.