When the clocks change and the days get darker and colder, our motivation levels tend to drop. So, how can you boost your wellbeing this autumn? While our focus is on the financial wellbeing of our clients, we believe that you should also invest in looking after your physical and mental health. So, as we approach Stress Awareness day on 2 November, we encourage you to take a moment and check in on your wellbeing. Let’s look at some wellness tips to help you improve your mood.
“And all at once, summer collapsed into fall.” Oscar Wilde
Wellness tips for Autumn
It’s that time of year when the leaves start to fall, and summer becomes a distant memory. As comfort becomes our top priority, we might feel like retreating indoors and curling up in front of the latest Netflix series. And many of us give in to overeating things we shouldn’t.
It’s natural; falling leaves signal seasonal change. However, it can also be a great time of year to reset and make some positive changes in your life. Use the changing season to reflect, recharge and adopt some new habits. We have listed several ideas below.
Small changes
Building healthy habits start with one small change. Start by fitting in a 10-minute yoga routine before work or a lunchtime walk around the block once a week. If you complain that you never get any ‘me time’, book a slot in your diary in advance to spend 30 minutes each week doing something just for you. Whether it’s reading a book or visiting a local park, begin creating positive habits that will boost your mood.
Breathe well
Mindfulness is a great way to bring you out of your busy work mode and into a calmer state of relaxation. Sit for a couple of minutes each day, making sure you’re comfortable, and breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth, steadily exhaling. Count to two, three, or four as you inhale and exhale. You will naturally find your rhythm, and your breathing will flow effortlessly, renewing your energy levels.
Start journaling
Using a journal, whether in paper or digital form, take a moment to reflect on your year so far. Ask yourself whether things have gone as planned, and write down what worked and what hasn’t. Set a new deadline for any realistic goals that you achieve by the end of the year. You could create a vision board, adding images to visualise your aims and aspirations. Keep journalling to record your thoughts.
Enjoy nature
Despite the cooler temperatures, autumn is a beautiful time of year when the leaves change into a myriad of colours. So embrace the season by spending time outdoors. In a famous 2019 study, psychologist Marc Berman, PhD, and his student Kathryn Schertz, reported cognitive improvements when people were exposed to green spaces and natural environments. Nature can boost your mood and help you focus.
Eat well
It might be tempting to give in to bad eating habits, but a poor diet will only exacerbate low mood in the long term. The odd takeaway treat is fine but aim for a balanced diet as much as you can. Eat mood-boosting foods with omega-3 fatty acids (oily fish, nuts, and seeds). In addition, immune-boosting foods containing vitamin c (broccoli, kiwi fruit, and oranges) and soluble fibre will help to keep you well (oats, apples, and nuts).
Regular exercise
If you’re not already doing regular exercise, this has been proven to lift people’s mood. Many GPs now prescribe gym referrals to encourage people to use their local leisure centre. But if you’re not a gym fan, consider joining a class. There is a vast range available, from dance to Zumba or even martial arts like kickboxing. Once you’re in the habit, you will find it easy to exercise no matter how cold it is outside.
Sleeping habits
A lack of sleep will affect your immune system and make you feel tired, which in turn affects your mood. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine will help you sleep well. Avoid “blue light” from smart devices like phones, tablets, LED TV screens, and computers at least one hour before you sleep. Unwind by dimming the lights, which will release the sleep hormone melatonin. Read a book or do some meditation to promote sleep.
Our financial planners know and value the importance of emotional and mental wellbeing. Getting a financial plan in place will give you peace of mind when it comes to your personal finances and your wellbeing. Our aim is to give our clients a sense of structure by helping them organise their money, so they can focus on enjoying their life, now and in the future.
It’s not just about investing; it’s about sensible tax planning and thinking innovatively to make your money work harder.
Would you like a financial review? Get in touch to speak to our financial planners.
Sources:
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature
https://www.johnlewis.com/content/wellbeing-leisure/wellbeing-tips-for-autumn-winter https://www.pressreader.com/uk/nottingham-post/20220920/281917366937057
https://aboutmanchester.co.uk/5-tips-for-improving-your-well-being-this-autumn/
https://www.boundless.co.uk/be-inspired/wellbeing/autumn-and-winter-wellness-tips https://www.nottinghamcitycare.nhs.uk/about-us/our-news/look-after-your-mental-wellbeing-winter
