Fall is here, and with it are shorter days, longer nights, crisp morning air and a variety of colorful leaves. It is also a season in which we have the chance to slow down and decompress as school lets out for winter break, and people take more vacations.

I chuckled when I recently read a post that said, “Summer clocked out at the end of its shift.” 

Life is already changing, and we will soon set our clocks to fall back an hour. With that being said, “Hello, November and welcome fall.” There are several ways to decompress during November, take charge of our emotional wellness and maintain a life of stability. 

Ways You Can Decompress This Fall:

1. Daily Exercise

Establish a goal to exercise for at least 30 minutes daily. Exercising is known to help decrease stress and improve mental wellness.

2. Enjoy the Outdoors

This time of year, there are corn mazes and pumpkin patches available to visit. Fresh air, connecting with nature, and a brief walk or jog can help dissipate negative emotions.

3. Clear Your Mind

Perform a few minutes of meditation daily and try different techniques, such as clearing your mind or focusing on your emotions to help alleviate stress. There are also calming apps that you can listen to on your phone.

4. Take a Vacation

You can take a mini vacation on the weekend with friends and family or plan a fun activity. This can give you something to look forward to, even if you go out with friends or family for a tasty treat.            

5. Read a Book

Reading a book can take you on a mini adventure, take your mind off stressful situations or help you to discover new hobbies or ideas.

6. Connect with Others

Find ways to connect with your family and friends, even if this is planning the next holiday gathering, completing traditions or reflecting on memories. Connecting with others helps you to avoid isolation.

7. Journal your Feelings

Consider starting a journal where you can express your feelings. Journaling can help you release your emotions, set goals and process thoughts.

If Fall is not your favorite season, do not worry. Focus on what you can do daily to help you stay grounded. Before you know it, we will be welcoming winter. Remember to recognize what you can control, be intentional in everything you do, enjoy the present moment and make the most of every opportunity. Let’s take charge of our emotional wellness by decompressing during this season.

Contact EAP to discuss more ways to promote mental health and emotional well-being for each season of life. Call 901-683-5658, or go to www.methodisteapcanhelp.org.

About The Author

Regina Abston is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She is a native Memphian. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Child and Family Studies from The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and her Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Memphis. Regina has worked with children, adults and families as a Medical Social Worker in a hospital setting. She also has many years of experience as a Crisis Specialist who works with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and suicidal or homicidal thoughts. Regina is passionate about her work and strives to motivate her clients to overcome difficult situations. She enjoys listening to music, traveling and comedy in her spare time.