The fall season is a time to replenish our bodies with minerals and vitamins lost thru sweat during the heat of the summer. During vacations and summer holidays treats like ice-cream, pool-side cocktails and sugary soft drinks are consumed much more often than normal. Over time, these put a drain on our system. Autumn is the perfect time to flood the body with much-needed nutrients. It's no coincidence that seasonal vegetables are so nutrient-dense; cruciferous greens, sweet root vegetables, fiber-rich fruits. These foods replenish our mineral reserves, restore our body's equilibrium and strengthen the immune system, all of which are key in preparation for the winter ahead.

While our schedules aren't exactly aligned with that of the polar bears preparing for hibernation, we do have our own metabolic process that kicks in to prep us for the winter months. As the summer comes to an end, our brain signals the body to increase its insulin resistance which in turn gives our liver the ability to increase fat production and our adipose and non-adipose tissues can store fat to get ready for winter. The liver is also told to increase glucose production in order to supply the brain during the colder months when glucose is naturally scarce. This metabolic shift is what kept our ancestors alive.  Fat accumulation protected their organs from harsh climates and the direct stream of glucose from liver to brain was crucial in maintaining a healthy mental state. Which brings us to another one of Autumn's qualities...

As we all know, humankind has advanced quite a bit since our old days on the prairie and there is by no means a food shortage during the colder months. In fact, with the holidays and more time spent in-doors, we are inundated with eating opportunities. To which our brain says " Whoohoo bring on the treats!!!" After all, it's still in its hibernated state, craving sweets and drooling over that cheesy casserole dish. So not only is it literally programmed to crave those temptations more than normal, it has a little fiesta every time it receives them. Because to the brain, excess calories during hibernation mean higher likelihood for survival. 

But not to worry, it is totally natural to experience a desire for sweet and rich foods in these upcoming months. And it's also natural for your body to shift and change with the seasons, so don't lose any sleep over these changes. Instead, use what you know about seasonal change to break-down any cravings and tune into to what you're body actually needs, not what your brain wants. For example, when you're craving sweets you're body is often dehydrated. Try drinking a full glass of water before reaching for that cookie. 

1. Stay Hydrated. 

Even when we're not hot and sweating, our body still requires 3-4 liters of water daily. Warm it up as a tea if you like, or add citrus fruit as an alkaline boost. Most important is that you drink it! 

2. Have Fun in the Kitchen.

With so many delicious vegetables in season, cooking is one of the best ways to really immerse yourself in it all. Take time to savor the smells, textures, and colors of your ingredients. Give your creative genius freedom to experiment with new spices and herbs. Cooking is a wonderful meditative practice. Allow yourself to be completely present and in flow with your actions. 

3. Enjoy those Sweet Vegetables.

Sweet cravings are hard to avoid this time of year. One way to keep them at bay, by eating 'sweet' vegetables. Carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, onions, beets, are all examples of sweet vegetables. For an easy dinner side, chop and toss a few cups of these veggies with coconut oil, paprika, salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Roast at 400 F/200C for 20 min and enjoy!

4. Get outside and move.

Our desire to get out and play is much lower when the temperatures drop. But staying active outdoors is perhaps even more important in the colder months, than any other time of the year. Not only does it help in maintaining healthy muscle mass but exercise is also a brain-mood-libido boost. Even a short walk around the block will get your blood flowing, refocus your mind and revamp your energy. Plus, getting out in the sunshine gives your skin the fuel it needs to produce Vitamin D. Which is vital for healthy digestion, mental clarity, and hormonal balance.  

5) Give Yourself the Gift of Time

Take some time to rest and reflect on all of your accomplishments from the past season. Appreciate your 'failures' or 'road blocks' as opportunities to learn and redirect your intentions for the upcoming months. Curl up with your favorite book, your journal, inspirational podcast, or yes even Netflix IF it's truly restorative to you. Focus on embracing your own life in the present moment…completely as it is…flaws, joys and all!