Nature’s Cure for Overwhelm: Tips to Rest and Recharge
I'm settling into our new home in Montana. We recently had our first snow and the aspen leaves on our property are mostly now on the cold ground. I cherish my afternoon hikes in the daylight knowing that the sunset comes quickly and darkness fills the sky. I wake up early in the morning enveloped in bright stars and realize...
this is the rhythm of fall.
More cold, more darkness and more dryness are not-so-gentle reminders that we are meant to have seasons of rest. We are given these gifts from fall because our human body and brain were not meant to be constantly stimulated and on the go.
Nature shows us how to live in balance so we do not burn out and run ourselves ragged.
What Sacred Messages from Mother Nature during this fall season are you observing and taking in?
Pause and notice.
Fiery Montana Sunrise! My backyard!
We can look to Mother Nature's fall season for guidance on how to rest and recharge.
Here are some ways to incorporate fall's natural rhythm into your own rest and self-care routine:
Embrace the darkness: As the days get shorter, we are given the gift of longer nights. Instead of fighting against the darkness, embrace it. Create a nourishing evening routine like a foot massage with essential oil to feel grounded or some gentle stretching (even in bed!) to release physical tension in the body.
Take a cue from the falling leaves: Just as the leaves fall from the trees, we too can let go of what no longer serves us. Take some time to reflect on what you need to release in order to make space for rest and renewal. Use this guided meditation to help with letting go of frustration.
Get outside: Even though the weather may be cooler, it's still important to get outside and connect with nature. Moving forward is key to preventing stagnancy and depression.
Practice gratitude: Fall is a time of harvest and abundance. Take some time to reflect on all the blessings in your life and practice gratitude. Gratitude has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress, making it an crucial part of any self-care routine.
Slow down: Finally, remember to slow down and take things at a more leisurely pace, especially for the mind. Instead of rushing from one task to the next, allow yourself the time and space to fully rest and recharge. Give yourself full permission to simply sit quietly with no distractions like social media.
By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can use the fall season as a personal guide for rest and self-care. Remember, just like the leaves need to rest and rejuvenate in order to bloom again in the spring, so too do we need rest in order to thrive.
If you’d like to learn more about these practices listen to the episode Sacred Messages of Fall on Be The Love Podcast.
