Ah, autumn! The season of crisp air, golden leaves, and cozy sweaters. But let’s be honest—it’s also the time when the days get shorter, the weather gets cooler, and for many of us, energy levels start to dip. You might find yourself hitting the snooze button a few extra times or reaching for that third cup of coffee just to power through the day. Sound familiar?
You’re not alone! As autumn settles in, it’s easy to feel sluggish and drained. The good news? There are simple, everyday habits that can help you maintain your energy and feel your best through the season. Here are some small actions you can take to stay energized, even as the days get shorter.
1. Get Outside and Soak Up the Sun
The shorter daylight hours mean less exposure to sunlight, which can have a big impact on your energy levels. Even a quick 10-minute walk in the daylight can make a difference. Whether it’s during your lunch break or a morning stroll, getting outside helps boost your mood and vitamin D levels, which can combat the seasonal energy slump.
2. Stay Hydrated
As the temperature drops, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. But dehydration can sneak up on you and leave you feeling fatigued. Keep a water bottle nearby and aim to drink regularly throughout the day. Herbal teas are also a great way to stay hydrated and warm as the chill sets in.
Experiment with different fruits, greens, and even a handful of nuts or seeds to create a smoothie blend that’s both refreshing and energizing. I found this really good recipe book SMOOTH & JUICY – recipes to look great and feel amazing! that is packed with over 130 smoothies, juices and cocktails.
3. Move Your Body
When you’re feeling tired, exercise might be the last thing on your mind, but staying active is one of the best ways to keep your energy levels up. You don’t have to hit the gym—try a short yoga session, a brisk walk, or even stretching at your desk. Just moving a little each day can work wonders for your energy and mood.
Try yoga at home, using online videos or a beginner’s guide. This saves both time and money. Did you know that yoga also can help with weight-loss?
4. Fuel Up with Seasonal Foods
Autumn is a time for hearty soups, roasted vegetables, and warm stews. Instead of reaching for sugary snacks when you feel tired, opt for nutrient-rich foods that give you lasting energy. Think apples, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens. These foods not only taste great but also help stabilize your blood sugar and keep you feeling energized.
I love a good pumpkin soup, roasted vegetables is also cheap and easy, and apple pie is such a delicious dessert!
5. Prioritize Sleep
With the sun setting earlier, it’s tempting to curl up and call it a night much earlier than usual. While getting enough sleep is important, oversleeping can leave you feeling groggy. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, and try to get between 7-9 hours of quality rest each night. A good night’s sleep is key to maintaining your energy throughout the day. If you’re one of those who need to find your way back to a healthy sleep schedule, I found this terrific guide The Sleep Reset: 14 Nights to Rebooting Your Rest.
6. Practice Mindfulness
Autumn can be a busy time with work, family commitments, and the start of holiday planning. Taking a few minutes each day to breathe deeply, meditate, or simply clear your mind can reduce stress and help you feel more focused and energized.
7. Embrace Cozy, but Stay Balanced
Sure, it’s the season for blankets and binge-watching your favorite series. And while those activities are essential to enjoying autumn, balance them with time spent being active and social. Connect with friends, try new activities, and keep your mind and body engaged to avoid falling into a sluggish routine.
