MINDFUL STEPS FOR A BALANCED FESTIVE SEASON

As the seasons change, it’s natural to feel shifts in our mood and energy levels. Just like nature, we are meant to adapt. Autumn, with its crisp air and shorter days, invites us to slow down, let go, and embrace a more introspective time. But often, we resist this change, longing for the energy of summer, which leaves us feeling frustrated. The key is to accept each season as part of life’s rhythm and allow ourselves to flow with it.

However, society doesn’t slow down with the seasons. Our pace remains the same — work, gatherings, shopping, and activities continue as if nothing has changed. In an ideal world, our external world would adapt to the colder, darker days, giving us space to match the natural rhythm of the season. But it doesn’t. The first step is realising this mismatch between our lifestyle and our nature. Then, we observe how this affects us, accept that it’s part of modern life, and finally, find ways to adapt on our own terms.

Autumn is a beautiful time to nurture yourself, but as the festive season approaches, social events and obligations ramp up. Finding balance is crucial — honour autumn’s quieter, introspective nature, but also allow yourself to join in where it feels right. Ask, “Do I really feel like it?” or “Am I too tired?” These questions guide mindful decisions, while also trusting your instincts to go with the flow when it feels natural.

By accepting this delicate balance between society’s pace and nature’s rhythms, you can navigate the season with ease. When you stop fighting the external pressures and instead embrace your natural mood, you enter the festive season with more peace, focusing on what truly matters.

Lorena Bernal is a certified life coach and spiritual life coach, and founder of the events and coaching platform Live Love Better.