Summer’s End and Fall’s Arrival: Welcoming the Change
As we find ourselves at the cusp of summer’s end, it’s hard to ignore how swiftly time has flown by. The vibrant days of summer, filled with warmth and activity, seem to have sped past in the blink of an eye. This summer was particularly memorable as I indulged in a whirlwind of new experiences. I had the joy of traveling and immersing myself in nature in new places, tried my hand at pickleball and lost in a tournament terribly, and embarked on an extensive family trip abroad. I also had the privilege of presenting at the Postpartum Support International conference and launching a new tool I collaborated on with a colleague. With so many new adventures, I was barely home in Chicago for a whole month!
Now, as the energy of summer begins to wane, I've enjoyed the past month settling back into my routine and fully embracing the beauty of Chicago’s summer. Yet, September has arrived, bringing with it the challenge of preparing for the transition to fall.
Personally, I cherish the “ber” months—September, October, November, and December. Fall offers a unique blend of coziness and contemplation that I find deeply fulfilling. I love the crisp air, the colorful foliage, and the opportunity to cozy up with a good book or enjoy a warm cup of tea. The season brings a sense of renewal and readiness, and I look forward to embracing these qualities as we move through the fall months.
For many, fall represents a time of new possibilities and a return to comfort and warmth. It’s often seen as a season of transformation and renewal. As the leaves change color and the days grow shorter, there’s an inherent sense of preparation for the winter months to come. It’s a period of reflection and readiness, making it an ideal time to think about how we transition from the high energy of summer into the more introspective months of fall.
So, what can we do to embrace this transition and prepare ourselves for the coming months? Here are a few thoughts to consider:
Reflect on Your Summer: Take some time to look back on the past few months. What moments brought you joy? What lessons did you learn? Reflection can help you appreciate the summer’s experiences and set a positive tone for the fall.
Embrace the Season of Change: Fall is a time of transformation. Allow yourself to adapt to the new season with an open mind. Engage in activities that bring you comfort and align with the season.
Set Intentions for Fall: What do you want from this fall season? Setting clear intentions can help guide you through this period of change. Consider what goals or experiences you want to focus on and how to make the most of this transitional time.
Prepare for Winter: As we move toward winter, it’s essential to start planning for the colder months. This might include preparing your home, establishing a winter self-care routine, or setting goals for the coming year.
Focus on Mental Health: The transition from summer to fall can affect your mood and mental well-being. Be mindful of these changes and prioritize self-care. Seek support if needed, and engage in practices that nurture your mental health.
As we say goodbye to summer and welcome the fall, let’s approach this change with curiosity and openness and see what it brings us.
