5 Fall Health Tips and Nature Journaling

As the weather cools a bit, the pace of our days tends to shift. Maybe not slower, but different.

Different means a change in wardrobe, activities, chores, comfort foods, exercise, priorities.

There’s much to do, and daylight is lessening.

Fall makes me want to stay home, go hiking, roast marshmallows, wear cozy sweaters, drink hot tea in the afternoon. 

Here are 5 tips to help you stay healthy and happy as we move into a quieter time in Nature.

1. Dust off your crock-pot or instant pot and scout out a couple of recipes that are simple and abundant in veggies. Remember to use bone broth as a base, either homemade or store-bought. You’ll get more protein and health benefits.
2. Enjoy some outdoor time doing things that make you happy. Hike the Dunes, go for a bike ride, sit fireside with good friends, take a walk around the block, visit a park and sit on a swing. Depending on your age, you could try the merry-go-round, but that can be a bit scary. (How did I not kill myself on that thing when I was a kid?)
3. Stay hydrated. Many people remember to drink plenty of water in the summer, then neglect this healthy habit with cooler weather. If you’re feeling “off,” it could be dehydration. About half your weight in ounces is a good foundation for your water requirement. Adjust accordingly. If this is a challenge, get a fun container to help you keep track. Make a game out of it with those you live with. Water is necessary in every season to help you stay healthy.
4. Beware of sugar intake and overload. It starts pre-Halloween and continues into the New Year. Nip it in the bud now, before it’s a problem that equates to increased illness, increased weight, increased blood sugar. Moderation in all things except for maybe vegetables. I’ve not heard of anyone overdosing on vegetables.
5. Reprioritize your “To Do List” if necessary. I love summer and neglect many indoor projects to play outside. Now my priorities shift to getting stuff done. It may be time to clean out your fridge/freezer/pantry and stock it with staples that are better suited for seasonal cooking. Wardrobes sometimes need a clearing. Perhaps you can lessen some extracurricular activities and simplify your life a bit.

Nature Journaling

 Nature journaling is a great way to connect with the natural habitats near where you live. It’s the process of sketching, painting, and writing about natural subjects that you encounter while exploring the outdoors.

The neat thing about nature journaling is that it can be whatever you’d like it to be. There’s no wrong way to do it.

You can take a break from your hike, walk, or bike ride, and make notes or sketch something that catches your eye. 

The only equipment you need is a journal of some sort, and a pen or pencil. There’s usually a good selection of reasonably priced journals at stores like T.J. Maxx or Marshalls. Your supplies can include colored pencils and more sophisticated pens if you feel so inclined.

Remember, no rules. And don’t even try to make it perfect.

Need help with your fall priorities? I’m here for you.

Much love,
Health Coach Carol

“October, baptize me with leaves! Swaddle me in corduroy and nurse me with split pea soup. October, tuck tiny candy bars in my pockets and carve my smile into a thousand pumpkins. O autumn! O teakettle! O grace!”—Rainbow Rowell