Autumn comes with shorter days and cooler temperatures. While there are many pros of autumn, the transition can also be a challenge. Fewer hours of daylight and changing weather can be hard on both physical and mental health for some people (especially for the Byron locals after a spectacular Summer season!!). With that in mind, here are some of my top tips for an awesome Autumn.

1. Start adjusting your sleep schedule

   Autumn is when we say goodbye to Daylight Savings Time and turn the clocks back an hour. Prepare yourself for earlier evenings and shorter days by going to bed earlier before you have to change the clocks. Fewer hours of light can disrupt your circadian rhythm, but you can get your body used to it by planning for an earlier bedtime. Try to keep your bedtime and wake times the same and aim for 7-8 hours sleep per night.

2. Stay active

   Early sunsets and cooler temps make it easy to hibernate inside all season, but don’t forget to stay active. You need to keep moving, to keep moving they say! Keep your daily routine structured and commit to your exercise/fitness regime to avoid “cabin fever” and the blues that can set in for some in the cooler months. Outside of this, embrace the slower pace of Autumn to enjoy sitting quietly, reading a book, cooking your favourite meal or watching your favourite movie.
   

3. Stay warm

   Depending on where you live, you might need to layer more with autumn upon us. Wearing layers helps to protect your body from the dropping temperatures and to stay comfortable.

4. Eat seasonally

   Take advantage of the fruits and vegetables that are in season including apples, broccoli, brussels sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, grapes, dates, figs, mushrooms, onions, sweet potatoes, cabbage, eggplant, corn and much more.
   

5. Hydrate regularly

   You're less likely to drink water when the temperatures drop but staying hydrated is still important! Drink plenty of water throughout the day and make it room temperature or warm, rather than cold. Or, alternatively, consume more herbal teas! Plants infused in water can increase hydration.

6. Maintain good hygiene

   Viruses are more prevalent in the cooler months so to reduce the chances of getting colds or other sicknesses by:
   Washing your hands often to remove germs
   Wiping down door handles and any surfaces you touch often
   Boosting your immune system with healthy foods
   Drinking plenty of water

   Enjoy!

   
   Original blog: Byron Bay Tea Company