- Emily Syphas
- September 16, 2021
Sobriety in Autumn
Enjoying the autumn season…sober
As days get shorter and nights get darker, the autumn season can bring with it feelings of sadness as we come to terms with the fact summer is over. Unless you’re a lover of these darker months, autumn can be a difficult time for anyone. But if you’re new to sobriety, it can be even harder.
Don’t fear, there are plenty of little things you can do to help make this autumn season more enjoyable in your sobriety.
1. Make the most of nature in autumn
With beautiful autumnal colours and serene scenery, use this season to embrace all that nature has to offer. Go for regular walks outside to give yourself the opportunity to admire autumn in its fullest. While the sun might not be shining as much as it did in summer, there is so much beauty to be seen this season – make the most of it!
2. Give yourself a chance to slow down
Summer is often the season of plans, socialising and DOING – so why not make autumn your time to simply BE? Enjoy a slower pace of life, take more time to reflect on yourself and your sobriety, and focus on your mental wellbeing. Without the chaos of the outside world, we are provided with the perfect opportunity to go inwards.
3. Prioritise self care
If you struggle with the shorter days, make self care a priority. Do something every day to nourish your mind, body and soul – and stick to this commitment. It doesn’t need to look like face masks and bubble baths every night, but simple things like staying hydrated, meditating or spending time with loved ones. Do what feels good for you, and what is going to best support you in your sobriety.
4. Take advantage of that extra morning hour when the clocks turn back
When the clocks go back in autumn, many of us complain about losing an hour of daylight in the evening. But if we flip this on its head, we’re gaining an hour in the morning that we can make the most of before our body adjusts to the time change! Use this hour to your advantage and enjoy the morning to its fullest.
4. Make meaningful plans with people who lift you up
Instead of filling every weekend with BBQs, festivals and parties – focus on meaningful plans with people who truly lift you up. Catch up with that friend you haven’t seen for a while, treasure time with family, and do things purely because you want to – not just for the sake of it.