Nothing stays the same and we wouldn’t really want it to.  But it’s how we adjust to the changes that is important.

Some changes happen cyclically and can be planned for, like the change of the seasons and then there are the events that just happen, like redundancy.  But are the cyclical changes easier to adjust to, you would think so. But then every Autumn when the clocks go back it can still seem like a massive upheaval.

It’s been getting gradually darker in the evenings anyway, so surely the clocks going back by 1 hour shouldn’t have too much of an effect.  But it does.  Maybe it’s the suddenness of a whole hour, when we’ve been used to losing minutes of daylight each day?  Countless research has found mental and physical consequences caused by the clock change.

Feelings of depression and loneliness can increase, as we’re less inclined to go out when it’s dark so early.  Our energy levels can drop, particularly in the first week after the clocks change. Mainly because our bodies are trying to adapt and we might not sleep as well.  But we can try to counteract these negative effects by maximising our exposure to daylight.  I’m a big fan of getting outside for a walk (yesterday I had 3) especially at this time of year.  The trees look stunning with their different colours, you’re walking through leaves, it’s not too cold and there is often plenty of sunshine. 

Exercise is great for making us feel less lethargic. We should also try and maintain contact with family and friends to help with mental health and feeling connected.  But as well as all that, I think it’s important to find time for taking it easy and spending time indoors.  I always find Summer to be such a busy time, with holidays, gardening, camping trips, festivals….  Surely now is our time to recharge?

If I take my cues from my cats, that seems to be exactly what they’re doing.  They’ve gone from spending days outside in the sunshine to popping outside every now and then. These days they’re mostly lying on top of the radiator/bed/sofa/filing cabinet.

I do always feel more productive at this time of year. I’m not great at knuckling down to work in the Summer when it’s hot and sunny outside. Now is the time to get ahead, so that my working day can be a bit more flexible when the Summer comes around again.

The key is to work with the Seasons.  Do your best to stay energised and get outside when the days are short but embrace the opportunity to have cosy nights in too.  If you can, work hard now so you can enjoy more breaks in the garden when it’s hot and sunny. 

Having a goal really works for me, so I have Brighton marathon in the Spring to train for.  This will ensure that I continue to get outside and run.  I will also embrace the Cross Country season, as nothing gets you stronger than a Winter of hills and mud.   So if it helps you, maybe set a goal that keeps you active and sociable throughout the dark months but don’t forget to have that downtime too.

I love writing blogs, contact me if you would like me to write one for your website.