Autumn Blues, Seasonal Depression and Meditation | Bayside Meditation
As the weather gets cooler, many of us find ourselves grappling with a case of the "autumn blues." It's a common feeling - a sense of melancholy or restlessness that often accompanies the transition from the warm, carefree days of summer to the cooler, more introspective season of autumn. Meditation can be a time for reflection during this change. Persistent or disruptive low mood deserves attention from a health care professional.
Changes to Notice
Lack of Energy: Many people with autumn blues report feeling tired or fatigued, even if they get enough sleep. The decrease in natural daylight can contribute to feelings of sluggishness.
Decreased Motivation: You might find it challenging to stay motivated or engaged in your daily activities, whether at work, school, or home.
Social Withdrawal: Some individuals may withdraw from social activities or experience a reduced interest in spending time with others. This can lead to feelings of isolation.
Changes in Sleep Patterns: The shift to shorter days and longer nights can disrupt your sleep patterns. You may find it harder to wake up in the morning or experience changes in the quality of your sleep.
Appetite Changes: Some people may notice changes in their appetite during the autumn season. You might crave comfort foods or experience changes in your eating habits.
Increased Stress or Anxiety: The anticipation of the holiday season or the return to a more structured routine in the fall can lead to increased stress or anxiety for some individuals.
Loss of Interest: You might lose interest in activities or hobbies that usually bring you joy and satisfaction.
Seasonal Depression: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is depression with a recurring seasonal pattern. It is different from a brief dip in mood as the season changes.
Understanding the Autumn Blues
Why do many people experience this shift in mood as the weather changes?
Seasonal Change: Seasonal change can be a reminder of the impermanence of life, which can trigger feelings of nostalgia or sadness.
Reduced Sunlight: Shorter days can affect sleep-wake rhythms. Changes in daylight may play a role in winter-pattern SAD, but its causes are still being studied.
Back-to-School or Work: For students and professionals, autumn often means returning to a more structured routine, which can be a source of stress and anxiety.
Meditation as a Time for Reflection
Find Peace Within: Bayside Meditation’s subtracting-meditation practice invites you to reflect on and let go of accumulated thoughts and attachments. In its spiritual teaching, this is described as clearing the human mind to discover the true mind and inner peace.
Time for Reflection: You can use your practice time to reflect on how you are feeling as the season changes. There is no need to force a particular feeling or outcome.
Gratitude and Reflection: This season can be an invitation to notice what you value and make room for gratitude in daily life. There is no need to force yourself to feel positive when you are struggling.
Practical Meditation Tips
If you would like to make time for meditation this autumn, here are some practical tips:
Create a Cozy Space: Set up a comfortable and inviting meditation space with warm blankets, cushions, and soft lighting.
Choose the Right Time: Find a time of day that works for you. Some people prefer morning meditation to start their day with intention, while others find evening meditation helps them unwind.
Guided Meditation: A Bayside Meditation guide can introduce the subtracting method and explain its focus on letting go of accumulated thoughts and attachments.
Time Outdoors: If it suits you, consider a walk in the park as one way to take a break and enjoy the season.
SAD calls for assessment and a treatment plan with a health care professional. Options may include light therapy for winter-pattern SAD, cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressant medication. Meditation may be a personal spiritual practice alongside care; it is not an established treatment for SAD. Do not stop or change prescribed treatment on the basis of this article. Consider this season of change an opportunity for self-reflection, growth and renewal, while giving yourself permission to seek support. If you would like to learn about Bayside Meditation’s subtracting method, consult our meditation guides for a free introduction:
For background on meditation evidence and safety, see the NCCIH overview.
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