How Living Seasonally Helps Us & Our Health Thrive
Living Seasonally is Embracing the Power of Nature's Rhythm
We aren’t just living in a natural world. We are a part of nature. Made of the same atoms and elements. And just like other mammals we too need periods of rest where our bodies and minds are quiet.
Our way of living has separated us from Nature, and yet if we took the time to pay attention Nature has a remarkable way of guiding us through the different phases of life, and the seasons play a significant role in keeping us grounded and moving forward. Just as the Earth goes through cycles, so do our lives. By embracing the essence of each season and aligning ourselves with its energy, we can enhance our productivity, find balance, and create space for rest and rejuvenation.
Seasonal living isn’t just some fun activities list you can do each season, it’s meaning, significance, and benefits go a lot deeper; Connecting with nature and living seasonally allows us to tap into the natural flow of life and find harmony within ourselves. Here are the key ways that the seasons help us to keep moving forward and stay focused on the present moment, ensuring we move through each phase of the productivity cycle.
In fact I have personally experienced for myself during my own health struggles, and witnessed in clients & others the dramatic changes and positive effects time in nature, and rebuilding a connection with the rhythms of Nature, can have on health & wellbeing.
Through the Seasons
Spring: Embracing Renewal and Growth Spring is a time of new beginnings, growth, and renewal. Just as flowers bloom and birds sing, this season urges us to let go of the past and embrace fresh opportunities. Spring is a reminder that we can start afresh, set goals, and nurture our dreams.
Living seasonally in spring means harnessing the energy of growth and taking action towards our aspirations. It's an ideal time to declutter our physical and mental spaces, reevaluate our priorities, and plant the seeds for future achievements. By utilising the energy of spring, we can move forward with purpose and enthusiasm.
Summer: Harnessing the Energy of Productivity Summer symbolises full bloom, warmth, and abundance. As the days get longer, we often find ourselves with increased energy and motivation. It's the perfect time to focus on our projects, goals, and aspirations.
Living seasonally in summer means harnessing this energy of productivity. It's crucial to create a clear action plan, set targets, and work towards our desired outcomes. Embracing the summer mindset allows us to soak up the sun's vitality and make progress in our professional and personal lives.
Autumn: Embracing Change and Reflection Autumn is a season of change and transition. The vibrant colours of the falling leaves remind us that life is ever-evolving. It's a time to slow down, reflect on our achievements and lessons learned, and prepare for the upcoming winter.
Living seasonally in autumn means embracing change gracefully. It's important to take stock of our accomplishments, celebrate our growth, and release anything that no longer serves us. Autumn provides an opportunity for introspection, self-reflection, and refining our path forward. By acknowledging and embracing the changing seasons within our own lives, we can navigate transitions with ease and move forward with purpose.
Winter: Embracing Rest and Rejuvenation Winter brings a sense of stillness and quietude to the natural world. Just as nature rests and replenishes during this time, our bodies and minds also need a period of rest and rejuvenation. It's a season to slow down, practice self-care, and recharge for the seasons to come.
Living seasonally in winter means honouring the need for rest and reflection. It's about creating space for self-care, nurturing our well-being, and reconnecting with our inner selves. By allowing ourselves to rest, we can restore and replenish our energy, setting the stage for increased productivity in the seasons ahead.
How Our Bodies Connect to the Seasons and Nature
Our bodies are intrinsically connected to nature, and the seasons have a profound impact on our overall well-being. Research suggests that aligning our activities and lifestyle with the seasons can promote better physical and mental health. Three examples of this being:
Circadian Rhythm: The changing duration of daylight throughout the seasons influences our body's natural circadian rhythm. By syncing our daily routines, such as sleep and wake times, with the natural light and darkness, we can regulate our body's internal clock and promote better sleep and overall health.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Some people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder, a type of depressive disorder that occurs during the darker months of winter. By incorporating practices such as light therapy, outdoor activities, and cultivating gratitude for the unique aspects of each season, we can alleviate the symptoms of SAD and maintain a positive mindset.
Nature's Healing Power: Spending time in nature, whether it's by taking walks in scenic landscapes or engaging in outdoor activities, has numerous physical and mental benefits. Exposure to natural environments reduces stress, enhances mood, and boosts our immune system. By immersing ourselves in the beauty of each season, we can tap into nature's healing power.
Energetics: Our bodies herbal plants, and the seasons all have characteristics that reflect, represent, and mirror the elements you can find in nature: Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Ether. These Elements are the fundamental basics of being able to understand and take care of your body & health, treat illness, and fid balance as the seasons shift and change. Grasping and using these principles greatly increases your overall health and long-term wellbeing.
Overall, living seasonally and acknowledging the ever-changing nature of our lives helps us maintain a balanced and fulfilling existence. By embracing the lessons and energy of each season, we can keep moving forward, stay focused on the present moment, honour our productivity cycles, and take the important & necessary time to rest and rejuvenate. A phase of the productivity cycle that is often neglected and ignored until it’s too late and we end up burnt out, sick, and uninspired.
Is it time you embrace the seasons and allow nature to guide you on a journey of growth, connection, and purpose?
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SEASONAL PRODUCTIVITY?
If you would like to learn more about seasonal productivity and a cyclical approach to life & work you can read my eBook; Seasonal Alchemy, your guide to diving deeper into the world of seasonal & cyclical living for planning with the rhythms of nature. You can also check out the accompanying Seasonal Life planner…
Combined these two resources offer you seasonal guidance for health, productivity & creating a balanced, intentional life plus a framework that offers easy reference to help you stay aligned with your natural rhythms all year round, eat seasonally, stay mindful & connected… and SO MUCH MORE
xo Emily
