Does autumn mean fatigue for you? You are not alone. Our moods and our body are closely linked to the weather, especially during seasonal changes. In the case of autumn, the change in light that occurs is accompanied by changes in our body.
More precisely, the gradual decline in sunshine in autumn leads to hormonal adjustments which have repercussions on our physical and sometimes moral state.
The impact of brightness on our body
Our body is governed by an internal clock corresponding to circadian rhythms. These orchestrate the sleep/wake mode of our body. This rhythm is based, among other things, on the time of exposure to the sun thanks to our retinas. When the brightness rate changes, the amount of light received by our eyes also varies, causing our circadian rhythm to adapt. A disruption can then occur when we move from a summer to an autumn rhythm, which can explain the fatigue. Our body is somehow trying to get us in tune with the current season.
In doing so, this adaptation also modifies certain levels of hormones and neurotransmitters which regulate our behavior, in particular melatonin, a sleep hormone and serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved (among others) in the regulation of our moods.
This change in brightness therefore leads to a variation in hormones and neurotransmitters which directly concerns our body and sometimes our psychology. This is the adjustment of our body to the change in the level of sunshine which often results in physical and sometimes moral fatigue.
Light therapy can reduce this discomfort if this disorder persists. Often recommended in cases of seasonal depression, it is based on daily exposure to artificial light, simulating daylight. This technique helps regulate the production of melatonin and serotonin, thus positively influencing our mood and our sleep-wake cycle during the less sunny autumn months (which is far from being the case at the start of October which is exceptionally warm and sunny).
But the relationship between the weather and our body chemistry is not the only factor explaining fall fatigue
Other factors to consider
The fatigue felt in the fall can also have causes in the social environment, such as return to work and the end of the holidays. This return to work after the summer vacation, often at the beginning of autumn, can weigh as much on our morale as the variation in light and its consequences on our body. Back to school also sometimes causes stress which in turn exhausts us.
The change of diet can also contribute to this drop in energy and motivation which can characterize the arrival of autumn and this change of season. In the fall, our diet tends to change. The fresh, juicy fruits and vegetables of summer give way to heartier, comforting foods. While this dietary transition brings warmth and comfort, it can also lead to a feeling of heaviness and a drop in essential vitamin intake. It is therefore crucial to ensure that you include enough seasonal fruits and vegetables in your daily diet to compensate for these deficiencies.
The arrival of cold weather and shorter days can influence our motivation to practice physical activity. However, sport is an excellent way to combat fall fatigue. Even if the outdoor conditions are not ideal, there are many alternatives to stay active indoors: yoga, pilates, fitness sessions at home… It is essential to maintain an exercise routine to stimulate the organization and keep morale high throughout this season of transition.
Listening to oneself and seeking balance between body and mind during this period of change remain our primary assets to face this change of season. Finally, do not hesitate to consult a health professional if you feel particularly affected.
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