There’s something about September that makes us want to hit the reset button. The days are getting a little shorter, mornings are a little cooler, and after the busy days of summer, we start thinking about getting back into a routine. Fall is the perfect time to take a fresh look at the little things we do every day to feel our best.
A wellness reset doesn’t have to mean a complicated diet, an ambitious exercise program, or giving up everything you enjoy. Sometimes, the best and most sustainable changes are the simple ones.
Start with What’s on Your Plate
Fall brings an amazing lineup of fresh, nourishing foods. Apples, pears, squash, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and late-season tomatoes are just a few of the foods that are available to brighten up your menu.
Try adding a little more color to your plate, choosing whole foods whenever possible, and making meals at home when you can. A hearty vegetable soup, roasted root vegetables, or a big salad with nuts and seeds can be both comforting and incredibly good for you. Check out this month’s recipes for some ideas.
Don’t forget to stay hydrated. As the weather cools, it’s easy to drink less water without realizing it. Herbal tea, sparkling water with fresh fruit, and water-rich fruits and vegetables can all help keep you hydrated.
Give Your Sleep Some Attention
Summer’s longer days and later nights can throw off our sleep routines. Fall is a good time to get back to a more regular bedtime and give your body the rest it needs.
Try dimming the lights in the evening, putting the phone away a little earlier, and creating a relaxing bedtime ritual. A warm cup of caffeine-free herbal tea, a good book, or a few quiet minutes of stretching can help signal that it’s time to slow down.
Move Your Body—Preferably Outside
Fall is a beautiful time to get outside in the Sierra foothills. Cooler temperatures make outdoor activities more comfortable, so take advantage of it while you can. You don’t have to become a marathon runner to benefit from regular movement. A walk around the neighborhood, a hike along the ditch, some time working in the garden, or a few minutes of stretching can make a difference.
Don’t Forget About Your Nutrients
Even when we’re eating well, there are times when our bodies may benefit from a little extra nutritional support. Vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other nutritional supplements can be part of a well-rounded wellness routine.
At the Depot, our health and supplement section offers a wide variety of products for everyday wellness. From vitamins and minerals to herbal products and other nutritional supplements, we’re happy to help you explore what’s available. If you’re taking medications or have specific health concerns, it’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare professional before starting a new supplement.
And Maybe Most Important of All…Take a Breath
Wellness isn’t just about what we eat or how much we exercise. It’s also about how we feel. Give yourself permission to slow down. Spend a little time outside. Put your feet up. Call a friend. Enjoy your morning coffee. Do something that makes you laugh.
You don’t have to overhaul your life this fall. Pick one or two small things you’d like to do differently and start there. Healthy habits tend to stick when they fit comfortably into our lives.
So here’s to a new season, a fresh start, and taking a little better care of the person who’s been taking care of everyone else. You deserve it.
