As we step into the “ber months”, September through to December, there is a noticeable shift in energy all around us. The mornings feel cooler, evenings draw in earlier and nature begins its gentle transition towards rest.
For some this time of year feels cosy and grounding. For others it can bring dips in mood, energy, motivation, overwhelm or even sadness as the shorter days and the thought of another year closing in bring pressure or reflection.
The truth is, it is natural to feel a mix of emotions. The seasons influence not just our environment, but also our mindset and wellbeing. Add in busy schedules and festive pressure it is easy to fee a little out of balance.
The good news is with a little awareness and some simple practices, we can move through this season feeling more balanced, resilient and well.
How the ‘Ber Months Affect Our Mindset
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Seasonal changes in light can impact energy levels and mood. Colder weather may leave us more tired or vulnerable to bugs.
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Shorter days may reduce motivation, making it harder to keep routines.
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End-of-year pressure often triggers self-criticism about what we “should” have achieved.
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Emotional shifts surface as we reflect, sometimes leading to stress or comparison.
Instead of resisting these changes, we can choose to flow with them just as nature does.
Nurturing Your Wellbeing This Season
Here are some gentle ways to care for your mind, body and energy as we move through autumn and into winter:
Seek the light: Make the most of daylight hours; get outside, walk and soak in natural light.
Move mindfully: Stretch, walk, dance, or practice yoga to shift stagnant energy.
Nourish your body: Enjoy warming, seasonal foods like soups, stews and root vegetables especially reds, orange and yellows like pumpkins, squash, carrots, sweet potatoes and beetroot. Stay hydrated, even if you don’t feel as thirsty.
Make yourself cosy: Create cosy spaces with candles and blankets and lean into routines that feel supportive. Like reading a book, mindful colouring, having a bath in the afternoon (yes really give yourself permission to do it and see how it feels).
Pause & reflect: Journaling, mindfulness/meditation or EFT tapping can help process emotions and calm the nervous system.
Practice gratitude: Celebrate progress, no matter how small and acknowledge what you have navigated this year.
Set gentle intentions: Instead of pressure filled goals, allow space for reflection and alignment.
Holistic Therapies to Support You
Alongside lifestyle shifts, holistic therapies can give your mind and body an extra layer of support during the colder months:
Reflexology: By working on specific points in the feet, reflexology helps the body rebalance, reduce stress, improve sleep and strengthen the immune system.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage: A gentle, rhythmic massage that stimulates the lymphatic system, helping the body clear toxins, reduce swelling and boost immunity. Perfect if you feel sluggish or run down.
Reiki: A calming energy healing practice that helps release stress, support emotional wellbeing and restore balance. Many people find Reiki especially grounding in the darker months.
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT Tapping): The autumn and winter months can stir up emotions: stress from busy schedules, sadness from shorter days or old grief that feels heavier in quieter seasons. EFT works by calming the nervous system, reducing anxiety, shifting limiting beliefs and reframing our thoughts. Regular tapping can help you feel lighter, calmer and more resilient as you move through the colder months.
Embracing the Invitation
The autumn months are an invitation to pause, reflect and realign with what truly matters. They remind us that slowing down is not a weakness, it is a powerful way to reset and honour our energy to support our health and wellbeing. Just as the trees let go of their leaves, we too can release what no longer serves us and make space for renewal.
Be gentle with yourself. Progress isn’t always about doing more, sometimes it is about creating calm, resting and allowing your inner world to align with the season’s rhythm.
How do the ‘ber months feel for you: cosy and uplifting, or heavier and reflective?
How do I want to feel by the end of this year? Calm, energised, balanced?
Ready to Support Your Winter Wellness?
Whether you’re looking for reflexology, lymphatic drainage massage, Reiki, EFT or Mindset coaching, I would love to support you in creating calm, clarity, and balance through the winter months.
Book a free no obligation call here: 30 min Nurturing Session for online sessions.
Or here: VitaliQi Holistic Health Clinic for in person sessions at VitaliQi, Barnstaple.