As the golden days of autumn gleam on the horison, we are no strangers to the annual sniffle and sneeze that comes with changing seasons. A new season does not only mean colder weather, but a completely new cycle for the natural world, human beings included. Environmental factors have a direct impact on our health and if we are to ward off bad elements in our environment we should fortify our bodies with the means to do so.
Autumn is a beautiful but temperamental season, and we want to share a few tips on how to keep you and your family thriving and healthy this autumn.
Get to the Root of It
While we witness the loss of summer’s lush foliage, we must remember that nature’s cycle requires decay before life. Each season yields superfoods essential for optimum nutrition unique to that time of year. The dead foliage of autumn returns to the ground to nourish the soil and feed the roots of the earth. Root vegetables and spices such as ginger, turmeric, garlic, pumpkin, squash and sweet potato are all natural superfoods, with pumpkin serving as a good source of Vitamin A, C and E.
Root vegetables are one of the many plant-based sources of beta-carotene, essential for healthy organs and immunity. As a source of both soluble and insoluble fibre and delicious to boot, we can safely say that root vegetables are a nutrient-packed superfood ideal for the changing seasons. A comforting roast veg oven bake or sweet potato cottage lentil pie are all healthy ideas to spoil your family’s taste buds with this winter.
Kick into gear!
It is so tempting to become a cosy, couch potato as the days get cooler. We know! But your immune system will not thank you for it. You have to shift your body into gear to gear up for the changing environment. A body that is active is operating at its optimal functionality.
Exercise allows the body to secrete unwanted toxins from the blood stream, improves the functionality of the organs (especially essential organs for healthy blood such as the liver, spleen, kidney, lungs and heart) and consequentially builds the immune system.
If our blood is not being circulated and cleaned regularly, we tend to feel sluggish, develop brain fog and create a build-up of toxins that can lead to flu, colds and other typical seasonal illnesses.
The lymphatic system slows down in an inactive body. If you do not enjoy traditional exercise methods, try gardening (rake up those leaves) or evening strolls. In these ways you can enjoy the last of the season’s good weather before the cold of winter whilst getting your blood moving and your heart rate up. Exercise must go hand in hand with a balanced diet and plenty of water. Remember, our bodies are unique and respond to different lifestyles in different ways. Drink enough water, eat appropriately and exercise sufficiently for your body’s needs this autumn!
To keep a consistent exercise schedule, it is recommended that you take advantage of earlier hours. Early morning exercise allows you to energize your body for the day and gives you more free time in the evening to settle in and relax. You also avoid the risk of getting sick by staying indoors in the cold evening weather.
Rest
Autumn is a season in which nature is preparing to rest for the winter ahead. The falling leaves indicate nature becoming inert to preserve their seedlings and recuperate during the winter.
We should take a page out of nature’s book in this regard. We are constantly busy and it takes its toll on us mentally, physically and emotionally. As the days get shorter we should adjust our sleep schedules accordingly. We should wind down our days as the sun goes down. As far as possible, try not to cram too much into your day, prioritise that which is important and schedule anything else for the next day. Spoil yourself with quality sleep during this change of season.
We hope these few tips will help you and your family stay healthy and happy this autumn. Enjoy the balmy afternoons and crisp mornings, and take time to embrace the joys and wonders of nature’s changing colours. Most importantly, take time to be mindful of the earth and how it nourishes us as we take care of it.
Happy Autumn!
