I’ll be the first to admit I’m not good with change. And this in-limbo transition from summer to fall is not doing me any favors. While I love a sun-kissed glow as much as the next girl, I could do without the triple-digit heat we’re bracing for in LA, seasonal allergies, and overall fatigue.
As we begin our September, I can only hope that sweater weather suddenly appears with the drop of all things pumpkin-spice-flavored at Trader Joe’s. I’m ready to say au revoir to hot girl summer and welcome all the cozy fall feels with open arms—give me all the fuzzy blankets! From switching up how I sweat it out to how I care for my skin, I’m spicing up my wellness routine this fall. Read on for five simple summer-to-fall swaps to hit reset and embrace the season ahead.
1. Reassess your workouts
A new season is a perfect time to reassess what type of movement is working for you. Your body needs different things at different times, so taking the time to update your workout is crucial. If you’re going through the motions with your hot girl walk routine, it may be time to switch things up. Try adding a pair of wrist weights to level up your current workout. Or, switch up your workout itself by introducing intervals of lunges, push-ups, or squats into your routine. If you enjoy running, try changing up your route.
When the crisp autumn air finally hits, take it inside and try a new workout on obé Fitness. If your body is craving more low-intensity workouts than high-energy exercises, channel your inner Hailey Bieber and become a Pilates girl. No matter what your workout routine looks like or what your body is craving this time of year, take the time to check in with yourself and do what feels best for you.
If there’s ever a good excuse to get some new workout clothes, it’s a change in seasons. There’s no denying a new workout ‘fit puts a pep in your step—and makes it harder to skip the gym to rewatch Gilmore Girls for the umpteenth time. So don’t be left in the cold (literally) in a sports bra and biker shorts. Work in a pair of new leggings or, better yet, a matching set that screams fall (think: olive greens, mauves, and browns) into your activewear rotation.
2. Revamp your skincare regimen
PSL season means it’s time to start thinking about layering more than just our clothing. That’s right. I’m talking about your skincare products, ladies! Sub out your lightweight summer products for richer creams and serums to avoid the dry skin that accompanies cooler weather. That’s not to say you need to overhaul your entire skincare routine—a few minor adjustments will do the trick.
Start by swapping your gel cleanser and moisturizer for cream-based alternatives. Opt for a serum with hyaluronic acid. These quick swaps will help lock in moisture. Consider adding vitamin C oil to boost your skin’s antioxidants and achieve a J.Lo-esque glow. Keep your SPF on hand because those UV rays are still strong in the colder months. As tempting as it may be to slough off any dry, flaky skin, cut down on exfoliating if you’re prone to irritation, and forgo products with fragrance and alcohol. Oh, and don’t forget to hydrate the rest of your body to limit any itchiness that the drop in humidity can bring.
3. Reach for local, in-season fall produce
Eating what’s in season not only provides your body with more nutrients but also helps you save money and the environment. So, what foods should you be stocking up on come fall? Opt for fruits like apples, pears, and citrus fruits, along with root veggies like squashes, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes. This time of year, these fruits and veggies are preferable to raw, cooling foods like smoothies and salads. To round out a well-balanced diet, load up on healthy fats (think: coconut oil, avocado, and nuts) and warming spices, such as cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and cumin. From soups to pasta to desserts, there’s no shortage of fall recipes that are as comforting as they are nourishing. Bottom line: Fill your plate with warm, grounding foods à la Ayurvedic practices to keep your body healthy and balanced.
4. Re-establish a consistent sleep schedule
With the buzz and laid-back vibes of summer, my beauty rest hasn’t exactly been on point. (Those under-eye bags don’t lie.) In anticipation of the shorter days ahead, getting our healthy sleep habits back on track is especially important. Getting quality rest requires waking up at the same time every morning, making sunlight your first order of business daily, prioritizing movement, keeping your bedroom at a cool 65 degrees (give or take), and creating a healthy pre-bedtime routine. And, no, that routine does not include binge-watching. Incorporating some light reading or journaling can do wonders to quiet your mind for a restful night’s sleep.
5. Marie-Kondo your life
Who says sprucing up your home is reserved for spring? It turns out that taking a page out of Monica Gellar’s book can improve your mood, reduce stress, and increase productivity. So with the onset of autumn, take the time to declutter and clean your space for the sake of your physical and mental health.
What better time to slow down and look inward than this seasonal shift from summer to fall? As we prepare for the new season, it’s the ideal time to let go of what’s no longer serving us. Ask yourself, “What’s weighing you down?” Consider what may be holding you back in your health, career, and relationships. It may even be helpful to write this out. Then, shed any limiting habits, thoughts, and fears to make room for new energy and opportunities. In other words, “Out with the old, in with the new.” Once you’ve released this baggage, set new intentions and create a clear path to follow through with them. Could you use more self-care? Pare down your to-do list, leaving only the necessary tasks, meetings, and appointments. This will allow you time to focus on your well-being.
