As summer fades and we welcome in fall, we observe changes like colder weather, shorter days and leaves falling off trees. Aside from environmental changes we also experience mental and physical changes as fall comes around. Many are going back to school, others spending more time in office and increasing their workload. People are spending less time outside and more time alone during this period. Often, this change in pace can lead to feelings of sadness and anxiety that can increase during the transition from summer to fall. We also see an increase in illnesses around this time. Though this may be true, there are many ways to keep up with our physical, mental and spiritual health to remain grounded through the changing seasons. The following is a few holistic health tips we’ve gathered from a variety of practices that you can use as a guide this season!

Infrared Sauna

Cold weather tends to bring cold symptoms. One way to escape the cold and be proactive about your health is to spend time in an Infrared Sauna. These machines have a profound effect on the human body. One important benefit of Infrared Saunas during the cooler months is detoxification. The introduction of heat to the body can improve circulation, thus speeding up the process of detoxification. It is also possible to build one's immune system through sauna usage. Infrared Saunas help to increase Heat Shock Proteins which aid in the body’s recovery process by protecting cells and reducing inflammation. Improved sleep quality is another key benefit of Infrared Saunas which can help us from falling ill during this time period. All this aside, taking a quiet hour in a warm sauna during the changing weather is a great way to relax and recoup.

Lymphatic Drainage

Over time, toxins can accumulate in the body’s lymphatic system opening up the potential for various illnesses. As fall begins and we enter into flu season, it is more important than ever to make the effort to drain fluid build up and drain out any toxins. This can be done in a few different ways, both by one's self or through the help of a practitioner. To practice on yourself, tools like Gua Sha or a dry brush are a great place to start. Both methods stimulate blood flow, allowing buildup to exit the lymphatic system. Another method to try on your own is implementing 5-20 minutes of lying down with your legs upwards on the wall. This is a very easy and effective way to promote circulation and lymphatic drainage that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Lastly, receiving a lymphatic drainage massage from a registered RMT is another great way to manually drain and reset your lymphatic system and can be very beneficial as we approach the colder months. 

Ayurveda

Ayurveda is an ancient holistic practice from India that emphasizes balancing the mind, body and spirit to enhance one's well-being. As we transition to fall we can look to Ayurvedic practices to help us stay in harmony. It is found in Ayurveda that following a routine can help the body maintain energy levels. This is important during changing seasons, particularly during the shift from summer to fall when the days become shorter and darker. We want to ensure our bodies are adapting well and following an Ayurvedic routine can help us find a new rhythm best suited to fall. Ayurveda also encourages us to consume seasonal vegetables, preferably in soup or stew form as we approach colder months. Eating in tune with the season can help the body heal naturally from within as seasonal produce is equipped to nourish ailments that may occur during this time. It is also important to find time to get outside regardless of temperature. Fresh air and connecting with nature is vital to remaining balanced and cannot be forgotten as we approach fall. As well, consuming hot meals in colder months can bring a sense of comfort and warm us from the inside out. All of these practices combined can make the transition to fall much more enjoyable.

Reiki

Summer, for many, is a lively and sociable period whereas fall is often seen as a time of introspection and introversion. This can be a very drastic change that brings up some negative feelings which can be challenging especially when we do not know what to do with them. Often people begin to experience symptoms of seasonal depression during this time, which can be very isolating. Reiki can be an incredibly useful tool in these cases by easing negative thoughts through the restoration of balance in the body. Reiki practitioners can ease patients back into homeostasis by balancing the chakras and eliminating any blockages. Reiki can improve one's mood and reduce stress, leaving the patient feeling much lighter with a greater capacity to take on the many changes that come with the changing seasons.

It is incredibly important to keep up with our health and wellbeing year round and ensure we are being proactive. Hopefully some of these tips can inspire you to take some extra self care this fall and try something new!