Have you ever felt like a wellness superstar during the summer? You might enjoy evening walks, juicy peaches, and vibrant salads, feeling as if you’ve figured it all out. However, as October approaches, everything changes. The days shorten, salads become less appealing, and the craving for warm, comforting food intensifies. Does this resonate with you?
Understanding the Seasonal Shift
This phenomenon is not due to a lack of willpower or laziness. Instead, it reflects how our bodies respond to seasonal changes, particularly during midlife. Our energy levels, cravings, and overall mood are influenced by the seasons. The challenge lies in the fact that these changes often catch us off guard, leading to feelings of panic and failure.
But what if you could identify these patterns? If you could anticipate these shifts instead of feeling defeated when healthy habits slip, you could plan around them. Imagine transforming seasonal dips in motivation into predictable cycles that you can manage effectively.
Embracing Your Body’s Rhythms
Upon moving from Austin to Mexico, I lost track of seasonal time. In December, I wore shorts, and in January, I enjoyed watermelon. While it felt wonderful, it also disrupted my routine. In Austin, I followed a seasonal rhythm: summers called for grilled chicken and salads, while cooler months brought chili and roasted vegetables. I thrived in the warmth, but winter sent me indoors with cozy blankets and Netflix.
Here’s the key insight: my habits were not random; they were seasonal. Women in midlife often experience cyclical changes in hormones, energy, and cravings. Yet, we frequently expect consistent feelings and behaviors throughout the year. Is this not a setup for disappointment?
Planning for the Inevitable Dip
Often, we assume that feeling motivated one day guarantees the same for the next. However, I’ve learned that tomorrow I might prefer mashed potatoes and a Netflix marathon over a gym session. A dip in energy is not a failure; it’s part of life’s ebb and flow.
Understanding the Think–Feel–Act cycle is crucial. Every action begins with a thought. For example, if you think, “It’s too cold to walk,” you may feel unmotivated and skip your workout, leading to mindless snacking. The good news is that resistance is predictable. Recognizing these thoughts and feelings allows for better preparation.
By planning for resistance rather than being blindsided, those moments of reluctance become manageable checkpoints on your journey. This insight clarifies why some habits do not stick and how to cultivate those that do, even as cravings shift with the seasons.
Adaptability is Key
Consider a client from the Midwest who is a dedicated summer runner. When winter arrives, she adapts by switching to treadmill workouts and incorporating hot yoga. This adaptability demonstrates strength, not weakness.
When it comes to nutrition, healthy eating by season is about honoring your body’s needs. No one desires a cold salad in freezing temperatures. Instead, embrace warm soups and hearty meals in winter, while opting for lighter fare in summer. Planning meals around the weather respects your body’s requirements, making healthy routines feel intuitive.
This phenomenon is not due to a lack of willpower or laziness. Instead, it reflects how our bodies respond to seasonal changes, particularly during midlife. Our energy levels, cravings, and overall mood are influenced by the seasons. The challenge lies in the fact that these changes often catch us off guard, leading to feelings of panic and failure.0
Strategies for Success
This phenomenon is not due to a lack of willpower or laziness. Instead, it reflects how our bodies respond to seasonal changes, particularly during midlife. Our energy levels, cravings, and overall mood are influenced by the seasons. The challenge lies in the fact that these changes often catch us off guard, leading to feelings of panic and failure.1
- Create seasonal meal folders—digital or paper—to easily recall enjoyable recipes during each season.
- Develop a flexible exercise menu that includes options like yoga, bodyweight circuits, or indoor cycling. Movement should be adaptable, not all-or-nothing.
- Anticipate resistance by marking potential dips in motivation on your calendar, allowing for proactive adjustments.
This phenomenon is not due to a lack of willpower or laziness. Instead, it reflects how our bodies respond to seasonal changes, particularly during midlife. Our energy levels, cravings, and overall mood are influenced by the seasons. The challenge lies in the fact that these changes often catch us off guard, leading to feelings of panic and failure.2
This phenomenon is not due to a lack of willpower or laziness. Instead, it reflects how our bodies respond to seasonal changes, particularly during midlife. Our energy levels, cravings, and overall mood are influenced by the seasons. The challenge lies in the fact that these changes often catch us off guard, leading to feelings of panic and failure.3
This phenomenon is not due to a lack of willpower or laziness. Instead, it reflects how our bodies respond to seasonal changes, particularly during midlife. Our energy levels, cravings, and overall mood are influenced by the seasons. The challenge lies in the fact that these changes often catch us off guard, leading to feelings of panic and failure.4