A Perfect Time to Slow Down

Happy October!

I love October, and I love fall. There's something about this season that makes life feel like it can slow down. Of course, depending on our careers and lifestyles, fall might feel busier for some. But as the weather cools and people settle into their routines, it's a great opportunity for more family movie nights, evenings at home, time for cooking, slower living, and focusing on the remainder of the year.

October serves as a natural lull before the holidays.

Fall sports and training are in full swing for athletes. Parents are navigating back-to-school schedules. Those in corporate jobs are preparing for holiday sales, Q4 goals, and end-of-year or wintertime planning.

Fast-paced living is all too common. I’ve found that as the weather gets colder and we get less sunlight, I feel more inclined to honor my circadian rhythm and spend more time at home in the mornings and evenings—when I can.

Falling into a routine is important. It brings structure, consistency, and dependability to our lives. Healthy, well-balanced routines that honor a slower pace can support your longevity and energy for when life gets chaotic, travel becomes relentless, and unpredictability sets in. Leaning into the predictable seasons of life allows us to fully embrace the less structured, more chaotic times with less stress.

Here are a few ways I honor my body’s desire to slow down and get into a rhythm with work and life:

1) Focus on building your routine.

Ask yourself: When do you like to wake up? When does your body feel tired? Based on your goals, how much personal time, sleep, and recovery do you need?

Start by structuring your sleep and wake schedule. Then move on to creating a work and productivity schedule (or family schedule) that you know you need to stick to.

Build workouts and mandatory “self-care” hours into your week. Make sure to dedicate at least one morning or evening each week solely to your restoration—doing things that leave you feeling better and more prepared for what’s ahead.

2) Ask yourself: Is this a need?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your commitments, it’s okay to change your mind, say no, pull back, or re-prioritize.

Ask yourself: Is XYZ truly good for you? Are you doing it to please others? What needs to be on your schedule versus what is self-imposed or could be shifted to another week?

If you're busy, try to balance your priorities. Maybe skip one workout class or gym night (if you go multiple times a week), and instead go for a walk or do an at-home yoga session. Get creative to make sure you have enough time for you.

3) Include at least one lower-impact, slow-paced exercise in your routine.

Whether it’s yoga, Pilates, or walking, choose something that focuses on mindfulness and restoration.

Yoga and Pilates are perfect because they require you to be fully present and mindful during each session. Both practices emphasize breathwork and slower-paced movement, allowing you to reconnect with your body and check in throughout the hour.

4) Cook or bake at home—and watch a movie.

Fall is the best time for cozy nights in. I love going out to eat in the summer, but when fall rolls around, there’s something so comforting about cooking warm, nourishing meals or baking seasonal treats at home.

You can plan a date night in, stick to your own schedule, and avoid the hustle of restaurant hopping or overspending. A night in can do wonders for your mental health and relationships—whether it’s a girls' night, date night, or family movie night. You name it!

Let this October be a time to slow down, find your rhythm, and take care of yourself—with intention.

Interested in adding Pilates to your routine? Click here to schedule an introductory session!