by Harvey Cottrell, LSW, MSW, MA

 

As we enter into Autumn, nature will remind us once again that letting go and allowing time for rest are essential to health and well-being. The days grow shorter, and the shadows of night are longer. The earth sleeps; the brisk breeze will lead us to our winter hibernation. The Trees, brilliant with color, will release their burden; the leaves, once free, will dance upon the breeze; guided only by the Spirit of the season.

There is a sense of magic in the air; the smell of crisp leaves and wood burning fireplaces; the tastes of cinnamon and spice…

This is a particularly good time of the year to practice mindfulness and grounding.

“What does it mean to fully experience a moment—any moment? It means to directly experience what is here now without separation from it. It means opening, seeing, listening, feeling, being intimate and at one with what is.” ~Dorothy Hunt

One of the essential elements of integrative social work practice and functional medicine is to return to the self.

My patients are used to me reminding them to Reconnect- Remember and Reimagine.

Throughout life we experience traumatic events; distress; negativity, overextension…

We commit too often when we don’t have the time or energy.

Patients often talk about Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.)

Folks, report increase in depressive symptoms, low energy, feeling sluggish or agitated.

These symptoms are often our bodies way of aligning with external nature. Like the Trees we are meant to let go, to plunge deep into the earth and replenish our nutrients. This is a time for grounding.

As the Fall and Winter holidays approach, many folks find themselves with increasing commitments and responsibilities; juxtaposed with less sunlight and feelings that time is fleeting.

Remember to pause and take notice….

– What do I hear?
– What am I touching?
– What am I tasting?
– What do I see?
– How does my body feel?
– What am I thinking?
– How am I interacting?
– What do I smell?
– How am I breathing?
– What emotions am I feeling?

Its a good time to clean out your living space; your work space; be intentional; declutter….

Let go….