Okay, let’s be real—fall is gorgeous with the crunchy leaves, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin spice everything… but it also brings shorter days, darker mornings, and a little less sunshine. If you’re anything like me, you probably notice your mood dipping a bit once the daylight starts disappearing earlier. Seasonal depression (or just those “blah” fall blues) is no joke, but there are little things we can do to keep our spirits up.

Here’s what helps me stay active and keep my mood steady when the fall slump tries to sneak in:

1. Get Outside (Even If It’s Just for 20 Minutes)

I know, the couch, your favorite furry friend and a blanket are calling your name, but trust me—getting outside makes such a difference. Even a quick walk around the block or sitting on the porch with a coffee helps me feel more alive. The sunlight, the crisp air, the smell of leaves—it’s a mood booster.

Pro tip: Get the kids outside and let them run around or ride their bikes. The fresh air is beneficial to everyone! 

2. Make Movement Cozy & Fun

The gym isn’t always my vibe- so instead, I make workouts feel cozy:

• A yoga flow in my living room 
• Dancing around to my favorite playlist (yes, it counts)
• Even just stretching in PJs before bed

The point is to keep moving, not to make it perfect.

3. Find the Light Wherever You Can

Less sunlight = lower mood. I open my blinds as soon as I wake up, even if it’s gloomy. Some mornings, I’ll sit by a window with my book and coffee like a cat soaking in the light. 

4. Don’t Hibernate Too Much

I totally get the urge to hunker down and say “see you in spring,” but I’ve noticed isolation makes me feel worse. Meeting a friend for a walk, hosting a little fall dinner, or even just FaceTiming someone helps me feel connected and less stuck in my own head.

5. Eat Foods That Actually Make You Feel Good

Fall comfort food is the best (give me all the soups and roasted veggies), but I also notice I feel better when I just toss some spinach in my meals. And yes, I fully support apple cider  being part of the fall wellness plan (you need a daily wellness shot 😉 ) .

6. Protect Your Sleep

This one is huge. If I stay up too late scrolling, I wake up feeling drained, and the fall blues hit harder. Sticking to a routine—bed at a reasonable time, NO phone in bed, maybe even some tea before sleep—helps so much.

7. Little Daily Joys Add Up

I try to romanticize fall as much as possible: lighting your favorite fall candle, enjoying a new book, keeping a gratitude journal, or taking a few deep breaths outside while the leaves fall around me. They sound small, but they add up and shift my whole mindset.

Final Thought 🍁

Fall doesn’t have to be the season where we all crash and burn. Yes, the darker days can feel heavy, but moving our bodies, seeking light, and finding little joys really does make a difference. Think of it as creating your own “toolbox” for fighting seasonal blues—and remember, you’re not alone in feeling this way.

So, let’s grab our cozy sweaters, get outside, and make this season a little brighter together. 💛

Katie ♥️