Autumn, with its crisp air, rustling leaves, and kaleidoscope of warm colors, has a unique power to evoke emotions and stir the soul. It is a season often reaching into the depths of our psyche. While it has an undeniable beauty, it can affect some people’s moods in both negative and positive ways.
With the arrival of September, many people may feel worried or anxious. This is because September often signals a change in routine. It means that summer is over and responsibilities return. Autumn can serve as a reminder of school, work, or upcoming projects. People begin to feel more stressed. In psychology, this emotional state is sometimes associated with seasonal changes. For some people, these seasonal changes can contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression related to seasonal changes.
With the decrease in sunlight, the body releases more melatonin, which is associated with sleep. This can make us feel weak, sleepy, and exhausted. In addition, shorter days may reduce serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation. As a result, these changes may increase feelings of anxiety and depression.
On the other hand, autumn is accepted as the beginning of a new year for some. They make new decisions, buy new planners, try cozy recipes, and get more away from socialization. It is an opportunity to care for yourself and see your inner world. With the shorter days of autumn, evaluating morning hours by walking in fresh air, focusing on the color change in nature, and resting in the warmth of your home are all restful things that are healing for the soul.
Pulling away from the hustle of summer and spending time alone may help us become aware of our needs. While nature slows down, our time of focus can increase. It is a really beneficial period to take up a new hobby, begin a new book, or learn a new language.
Summer months can be filled with constant movement, social activities, travel, and the fear of missing out (FOMO). With nature slowing down, autumn gives us permission to slow down as well. Spending time at home, reducing the rush, and resting without feeling guilty can bring a deep sense of peace and tranquility to our souls.
Perhaps autumn is not simply a season of change, but also an invitation to slow down, reconnect with ourselves, and embrace a quieter rhythm of life. Instead of seeing the shorter days and changing routines as something negative, we can use this season as an opportunity to rest, reflect, and spend time with ourselves. After all, every season brings its own rhythm, and perhaps autumn reminds us that slowing down is also a part of moving forward.
Kaynakça
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- National Institute of Mental Health. (2024). Seasonal affective disorder. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2024). Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): More than the winter blues. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad-more-than-the-winter-blues
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