From Sundresses to Sweaters: Mindfully Moving into Utah's Autumn

Hey there, Utah! As the last days of summer fade and the first hints of fall color start to appear in the Wasatch Range, you might be feeling a mix of emotions. Maybe you're mourning the end of lake days at Bear Lake, or perhaps you're secretly excited for crisp air and the return of pumpkin spice everything. Whatever you're feeling, the transition from summer to fall is a perfect time for some mental health tune-ups.

Let's talk about how to close out summer on a high note and step into fall with intention and positivity. After all, in Utah, we're lucky enough to have some of the most beautiful autumn scenery around – let's make the most of it!

10 Ways to Mindfully Transition from Summer to Fall

1. Reflect on Summer Memories Take time to appreciate the season that's passing.

Try this: Create a summer memory jar. Write down your favorite moments from the summer on small slips of paper and place them in a jar. On a chilly fall day, you can pull them out and relive the warmth.

1. Set Intentions for Fall Use this transition as a fresh start.

Try this: Have a personal "fall equinox" ceremony. As the actual equinox approaches, take some time to write down what you want to let go of from summer and what you want to cultivate in the fall.

1. Embrace the Changing Landscape Use Utah's natural beauty as a mindfulness tool.

Try this: Take a "goodbye summer, hello fall" hike. Places like Millcreek Canyon or the Alpine Loop are perfect for this. Notice the subtle changes in the landscape as summer shifts to fall.

1. Plan Something to Look Forward To Having future plans can ease the transition blues.

Try this: Schedule a fall activity you're excited about, like a trip to Rowley's Red Barn in Santaquin for apple picking or a scenic drive through Logan Canyon to see the fall colors.

1. Practice Gratitude Focusing on the positive can shift your perspective.

Try this: Start a fall gratitude journal. Each day, note one thing you're grateful for about the changing season. It could be as simple as "cozy sweater weather" or "the sound of crunching leaves."

1. Create Cozy Spaces Make your home a haven for the cooler months ahead.

Try this: Do some "fall nesting." Bring out warm blankets, light some autumn-scented candles, and create a cozy reading nook by a window where you can watch the leaves change.

1. Maintain Outdoor Time Don't let cooler weather keep you inside.

Try this: Commit to spending time outdoors each day, even as the weather changes. A quick walk around Liberty Park or an evening stroll in your neighborhood can do wonders for your mood.

1. Adjust Your Self-Care Routine As the seasons change, your self-care needs might too.

Try this: Reevaluate your self-care practices. Maybe summer was all about morning jogs, but fall feels right for evening yoga sessions. Listen to what your body and mind need.

1. Connect with Others Shared experiences can ease transitions.

Try this: Host an end-of-summer/welcome-fall gathering. Have everyone bring a dish featuring late summer produce or early fall flavors. Bonus points for holding it outdoors to soak up those last warm evenings.

1. Seek Professional Support if Needed If the seasonal transition is hitting you hard, it's okay to ask for help.

Try this: Consider talking to a therapist, especially if you tend to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder. They can help you develop strategies to maintain your mental health as the days get shorter.

Remember, change is constant, and each season brings its own gifts. By mindfully closing out summer and intentionally welcoming fall, you can navigate this transition with grace and maybe even a bit of excitement for what's to come.

[Call to Action: Struggling with the end-of-summer blues? Let's talk about it. Schedule a session and we'll work on strategies to help you embrace the changing seasons while prioritizing your mental health.]