Why Fall Affects Your Mood & Energy - And What To Do About It
Just like clockwork, every Fall my patients start to trickle back into the office from fun Summers away and many have similar complaints:
Suddenly, they feel tired all the time, their mood is starting to dim, they feel bogged down by going back to work or school.
While it may seem on the surface that this phenomenon is purely linked to “getting back to reality,” the truth is there is a shift in nature this time of year that directly affects us.
Here’s what’s going on and what you can do to stay steady during this seasonal shift:
Why the downshift happens:
Less light = lower energy. Shorter days mean your body makes more melatonin (sleepy hormone) and less serotonin (feel-good hormone).
Rhythm change. Nature is slowing down, and our energy naturally contracts, too.
Emotional themes. In Chinese Medicine, Autumn is tied to the Lungs and Large Intestine (Metal element), with emotions of grief and letting go. That can feel heavy if your system is already taxed.
Practical ways to avoid the slump:
Try a seasonal “reset”
People often think of the Spring as the time for a home or habit “clean-out.” But September is the “New Year” of Autumn and a great time to prepare the house for cozy season and set up some new habits (read on…)
Acupuncture and herbs can help smooth the seasonal transition, regulate mood, and support immunity.
Think of it as syncing your body with the new rhythm of the season.
Chase the light
Get outside in the morning, even if it’s just for 10 minutes.
Sit near a sunny window when you work or read.
If needed, consider a light therapy lamp for early mornings.
Keep your body moving
Even gentle daily movement (walks & stretching) keeps energy and mood buoyant.
Don’t wait until Spring to get active — Fall movement is preventative.
Eat with the season
Warm, cooked, nourishing foods help support energy as temps drop.
Pears, apples, squashes, sweet potatoes, and soups support the Lung and Spleen.
Avoid overdoing cold/raw foods — they can weaken digestion and lower resilience.
Keep connections strong
The earlier sunsets can make us want to hibernate. Balance cozy downtime with regular social connection to prevent isolation.
Plan a weekly or monthly get together with friends, and stick to it, even when there is strong resistance to leaving the house.