With daylight dwindling and cooler weather upon us, it is often difficult to maintain a sunny attitude. What can you do to beat the autumn blues?

Autumn is ruled by the Metal element, the color white, letting go.

Why do many people feel sad this time of year? It is a time of letting go and for many people that is difficult. You can see this process in nature as we harvest the last vegetables and fruits of summer and enjoy their sweetness with family and friends. This is the natural cycle of change, the fields that yield fruit are left bare after the harvest. The best way to emotionally transition from the light heartedness of summer to the quiet and more introverted autumn is to “clean house.” Literally throw away things you do not need or use. Take an inventory of all the ways you spend your time and make a conscious decision to eliminate activities that are no longer interesting or satisfying.

Transition gracefully ~ treat yourself to a new hobby.

Start a fun activity that really gets you going!

After you have “cleaned house”, it’s time for a reward. Commit to a new activity. Choose something that is exciting to you, that inspires you, that makes you feel good. Take that dance class or pottery workshop you have been talking about doing for years. Go for that long drive in the country to see the leaves change before they all hit the ground. Help those lungs this fall, commit to a cardio workout. Spend time in nature. Watch the leaves fall, the animals plan for winter, the setting sun and then spend a moment reflecting on your own internal climate. Close your eyes, breathe deep, imagine a white light filling up your chest. Take time to enjoy each day.