For many of us, the summer is a season of freedom, longer days, outdoor adventures, travel and time spent with loved ones. As the summer fades into autumn, a sense of sadness or low energy can settle in. This phenomenon, often called post-summer blues can put people into a lull, and is more common than we might think.
In hotter climate countries, where the summer seems to last longer, starting in March and extending into November, coping with a few months of mild winter is not so bad. However, in those other places or years, where the winter seems longer and drags on, it can be disheartening as well as uncomfortable. It can affect people’s moods greatly, it can stir up emotions, signifying the symbolic “end” of summer relaxed schedules, vacations and social activities. The return to school, work and daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming and heavy in contrast.
Transitions in general may trigger nostalgia, restlessness, or even a sense of loss. Any unmet expectations that didn’t materialize – be it travel plans, days outside, personal goals, or just simply “making the most of it” – can fuel disappointment.
What happens psychologically and why? We know the gradual shortening of daylight hours reduces exposure to natural sunlight which influences serotonin (a ‘feel good’ neurotransmitter) and melatonin ( he sleep hormone). This shift can affect mood, sleep and energy, and sadness lingers as autumn begins with low motivation or energy levels, and maybe difficulty adjusting to a structured schedule, especially with dark mornings and early evenings. It may trigger cravings for comfort foods, huddling up in the home for more hours with mild anxiety and restlessness. If the systems are severe or persistent, it may be a sign of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which requires professional support.
How to cope may vary for different people, but setting some plans in motion can help. Some basic changes can make all the difference. Reframe autumn as an opportunity for winter indoor projects, be it clearing cupboards, redesigning and decorating around the home. Start new hobbies that can be done at home with cosy evenings listening to your favourite music, podcasts, or watching some of those box sets and movies you love. Shifting the perspective can ease the loss as you look forward to autumn as a beginning, a chance of scope rather than an ending.
Bring some elements of summer into the autumn – cook a favoured summer dish, plan a mini winter getaway for a few days of sunshine if you can, or at least start planning for the next one on a vision board, giving you something to look forward to.
Establish new winter routines, like enjoyable rituals, a weekly stretch / fitness / martial arts / dance class or healthy cake bake day, followed by an afternoon tea with family or friends. Just pack out that diary with all things you love to do, and the winter months will breeze by, if you pardon the pun!
Eat wholesome meals, have regular physical activity and sleep well. Seasonal foods like squash, root vegetables and apples offer grounding nutrients that support energy and moods. Make sure you get vitamin D, known as the sunshine vitamin, when not having adequate amount of sunshine. It can be found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, liver, and egg yolks. As the cold salads may lessen, start eating more warm vegetables for those vitamins.
The post summer blues are a natural response to seasonal change. Instead of resisting the transition, try embracing autumn rhythm while carrying summers light heartedness. As the winter deepens, you may notice a shift in your mood and energy. Shorter days, colder weather and long nights can leave you feeling sluggish, unmotivated, even a little down. The cold can discourage outdoor activity, reducing physical movement and fresh air, both of which are vital for energy and mental health. So if you don’t want to go and join a gym, try exercising at home by yourself or with friends – that also is good for you as you can inspire each other with more social stimulation and less self-isolation.
See friends and family whenever possible, especially the ones that make you laugh. Get out as much as you can for some fresh air as you prepare for the winter and that will be comfortable enough for you.
Love and Sparkles
Samsara x
