Why the Darker Months Feel Heavier (and What You Can Do to Lighten Them)
If you’re anything like me, you count down to fall like it’s a national holiday and groan at the little teases that come with early September weather.
Well, it’s that time of year where September is rapidly coming to a close and the sweater weather is finally coming to stay.
You’ve got visions of cozy evenings, falling leaves, pumpkin spice everything, and that one Instagram-worthy apple-picking trip (where you pick three apples and a pulled muscle). The crisp air rolls in and suddenly it feels like you’re living in Stars Hollow (my Gilmore Girls fans will know), complete with coffee in hand and a vague sense that a quirky town festival is about to happen.
(Something tells me my dog isn’t quite as excited about the fall weather as I am…)
But let’s be real, fall doesn’t just bring cozy sweaters and pumpkin patches. As the days get shorter and the sunlight fades, energy levels dip, motivation slows down, and moods can feel heavier. If you’ve ever wondered why you feel different once the seasons change, you’re not alone.
It’s not just pop-psychology, our bodies and minds are deeply connected to light. Less sunlight can affect our sleep, appetite, and mood. Instead of brushing it off as “just being lazy” or “not liking winter,” it can help to view this shift as your body asking for extra care.
Ways to Support Yourself Through the Darker Months
1. Soak Up the Light
Even on cloudy days, spending time outside can make a difference. Open curtains wide in the morning, take a short walk between classes or work meetings, or consider using a light lamp to mimic natural sunlight.
2. Keep a Gentle Routine
Shorter days can throw off your body’s rhythm. Sticking to consistent sleep and wake times helps regulate energy and mood.
3. Move Your Body (in Ways You Enjoy) Exercise doesn’t have to mean a hardcore gym session. A stretch break, dance around your room, or brisk walk can lift energy and release feel-good hormones.
4. Stay Connected
It’s easy to hibernate, but connection matters. Whether it’s a coffee date, study session, or even a quick phone call, be sure to schedule small touchpoints with friends, family and peers.
5. Try Mindfulness Tools
Grounding exercises, journaling, or simply noticing your breath for a minute can help shift racing or heavy thoughts.
A Final Note
Feeling a seasonal dip doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. Many people experience shifts in mood, energy, and motivation this time of year. With some intentional care, it’s possible to bring more lightness into the darker months.
If you’re finding this season especially heavy, therapy can be a safe space to explore tools and support that fit your life. Reach out here to book a session with a therapist who gets it. You don’t have to go through this winter alone.
