Daylight Saving Time is upon us once again. I hope you enjoyed your extra hour of sleep. Did you know that daylight saving time has been a matter of debate ever since it was first proposed? While some industries gain a lot of profit from the seemingly harmless change, doctors believe that DST is harmful to our bodies, affecting our health more than we initially believed. How are you adjusting to the new time change?
Fall season brings the cooler weather and shorter days – along with the temptation to stay indoors instead of getting out and soaking up the fall foliage. Let the temporary scenery be your inspiration to get out and get active before the winter months start to take a toll on your energy levels and motivation. Here are some ways to establish healthy habits in the coming months.
Go Forest Bathing
I hope you have read my last blog about Shinrin-Yoku or “Forest Bathing”. As the weather changes, and the leaves begin to turn brilliant shades of orange and red, I encourage you to explore the natural beauty your neighborhood has to offer and take advantage of the cooler temperatures. Visit a local park and plan your fall themed journey.
Get Moving and Cooking
It’s important that we get moving – Get your 10,000 steps a day. Take a walk with your spouse, child, and friend or even with your furry friend. Visit a local farmers market and visit every vendor as you select the freshest fall produce to make your favorite soup or dish. Now is the time to start boosting your immune system so you stay healthy all season long. Cook up some immune boosting recipes.
Get Enough Sleep
This should be easy as it gets darker early. Sleep plays an important role in our physical health and getting enough sleep gives us more energy and increased mental alertness. It is recommended that we stop using all technology 30 minutes before bed – no cell phone, no laptop, no kindle. Caffeine is not recommended after 3PM. Sleep only an hour longer during the weekend than your latest weekday wake-up time.
And of course, get a MASSAGE regularly!
Need I say more? (Holiday stress is just around the corner.) Massage therapy is a proven stress reliever, and new research shows that massage also reduces inflammation post exercise. Finding the right therapist for you is also very important. Your body relaxes better when you trust your therapist. Find one who listens not only to what you say, but also intuitively listening to what your body is saying. Add dry brushing to your massage, as this helps stimulate your lymphatic system to eliminate toxins, leaving you with the softest skin.
Autumn is the season of change. Find beauty in simple things. Breathe in the autumn air.
Reference:
Beauty is the only thing that time cannot harm. Philosophies fall away like sand, and creeds follow one another like the withered leaves of Autumn; but what it is beautiful is a joy for all seasons and a possession for all eternity. – Oscar Wilde