By: Lexi Nass, LCSW

Fall has finally arrived, which can feel exciting but also overwhelming. For those that spend their summer months at the beach or pool, traveling, relaxing, enjoying time off work or school, it may now feel difficult to establish and maintain a healthy routine. Because many may have not had a routine over the last few months, it may now feel overwhelming and difficult to create structure. Navigating the transition back to reality can feel overwhelming and anxiety producing. During this time it’s important to remind yourself that change does not happen overnight. Focus on prioritizing what rituals or activities help you feel your best, and then slowly work towards incorporating those things into your routine every day.

Here are some tips to get you back on track and to help you feel successful in managing this transition:

1.    Create your routine- To establish a routine, it’s important to consider what it will entail. What activities make up your routine that allow you to feel productive and that bring you joy? For example, your routine may be to work out in the morning, cook breakfast at home before heading out, packing your own lunch, doing laundry, cooking dinner, watching a show, or reading a book. Having consistency in your daily routines throughout the week will help you stay on track and feel your best. For some people, convenience is an important consideration if you have a busy schedule but want to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Consider ordering your groceries online for delivery the same time each week, enjoying a 30-minute workout from home, or walking to the subway rather than taking an uber. Finding ways to make your life easier, while still meeting your goals is important to help set yourself up for success.

2.    Include activities that bring you joy- It’s important to find things that bring you joy and incorporate them into your daily, weekly, and monthly routines. Having things to look forward to and feel excited about, that also make you feel good are important to incorporate into your daily life! These activities may include meeting up with friends for dinner once a week, treating yourself to take-out or a meal out, going for a manicure, going for a walk and listening to your favorite music, having an at-home spa night, or binge watching your favorite show.

3.    Slow down and reset- Take this time to reset and slow down! For many, summer in the city can feel overwhelming with plans during the week, and travel on the weekends. Carve time out of your schedule during the week to have more relaxing nights when you can. Feel empowered to say no to plans at times if you feel like you need a break. Plan fun nights in with your friends to order in and watch a movie. It’s important to take care of yourself both mentally and physically by focusing on down time and getting a good night sleep.

4.    Plan your favorite fall activities- Fall is such a special time because there’s so many fun and exciting activities to enjoy. Whether it’s pumpkin picking, apple picking, enjoying seasonal foods, such as apple cider or a spiced pumpkin latte, there are so many activities to enjoy alone or with a group of friends. While the weather is still nice, going for a walk is also a great activity and witnessing the beauty of the leaves changing is a plus! Taking advantage of the activities that Fall has to offer can help ease the transition between the warmer and colder months!

5.    Refresh your pantry- With busy schedules, many people have difficulty finding time to food shop or not wanting to cook as much. Refreshing your pantry is a great way to set yourself up for success. Instead of going out for dinner multiple nights a week, cooking can be a great way to feel healthy and save money. Researching and picking out some exciting new recipes is fun to do alone or even with friends. Focusing on these activities can help with the transition between seasons because Fall feels like a fresh new start; Grocery shopping and cooking more will allow you to feel more motivated to make healthier choices and maintain healthy habits.

6.    Refresh your closet- Fall is a great time to get your closet organized and set yourself up to feel prepared for the Fall weather- this means it’s time to get out your sweaters and boots! Organizing your closet can feel therapeutic; getting rid of things you don’t wear to make room for new items that you are excited about.

If you feel overwhelmed getting back into a routine, just remember you are not alone. This feeling is temporary and using the tips above will help you feel more in control to establish a routine that feels more manageable. Work on something every day that will help you feel your best, and remember to celebrate the small wins!