What’s not to love about a change in season?

As a Registered Nutritional Therapist that has worked in a corporate setting for many years, my experience has given me a unique perspective of a variety of different health issues ranging from infertility, sleep disorders, energy imbalances and digestive disorders to autoimmune conditions and skin issues, each person will require a personalised protocol and bespoke support. In my corporate wellbeing role I’ve been lucky enough to delivery hundreds of events to support wellbeing across the calendar year.

What I have learned in this time that the fundamentals for preventing poor health don’t change and each season brings a renewed sense of excitement for me to review what I am doing for myself with the food that nourishes me and my loved ones, and allows me to connect to on a deeper level to myself and also my clients.

Talking about the weather is a hugely popular pastime in the United Kingdom, especially the summer of 2024! Yet, the calendar year rolls on regardless of how we feel about it and connecting to the seasons allows us to be mindful of acknowledging the beauty of weather, whatever it may bring.

Each new season we are gifted an opportunity to realign with nature’s rhythm. This cyclical dance is what I call ‘seasonal living’, and it has profoundly transformed my life in recent years in ways that have led to hugely positive changes I my health for my mind, body, and soul.

What is Seasonal Living?

Seasonal living is all about aligning our lives with the natural cycles of the seasons. It’s about eating what’s in season, adjusting our activities to the natural light, and honouring the rhythms of nature in our daily routines. This connection to nature isn’t just a poetic idea; it has tangible benefits for our overall well-being. In. Fast paced world where time seems to speed up the older we get, connecting to the seasons in this way allows us to slow down and gives us a regular opportunity to reflect on our own personal wishes and goals for wellbeing.

The Benefits of Connecting to Nature

Mind: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Whether it's a walk in the park during spring, a swim in the lake during summer, or a quiet moment observing the falling leaves in autumn or deep rest and getting cosy with warming drinks in the winter, nature offers a sanctuary for our minds to unwind and rejuvenate.

Body: Seasonal living promotes physical health by encouraging us to eat fresh, local produce, which is often more nutritious and flavourful. It also inspires us to engage in physical activities that sync with the season, such as hiking in fall or gardening in spring, keeping our bodies fit and healthy.

Soul: There’s a profound sense of peace and fulfilment that comes from living in harmony with nature. Each season brings its own unique energy and lessons, fostering a deeper connection to the world around us and to ourselves.

Nutritional Therapy and Seasonal Living

Eating seasonally isn’t just good for the environment; it’s also fantastic for our health. Seasonal produce is fresher, which means it retains more nutrients. For instance, winter offers an abundance of root vegetables, perfect for hearty soups that warm and nourish us from within. In contrast, summer’s bounty of fruits and vegetables hydrates and cools us down. Something I always tell my clients is that even if you have found the ‘right’ way of eating for you, no one can do the same thing day in day out and expect it to serve our health needs forever, diversity is key, especially for our gut health.

By embracing seasonal eating, we naturally consume a diverse range of nutrients, supporting our bodies’ needs throughout the year. This variety is a cornerstone of nutritional therapy, helping to prevent deficiencies and promote overall health in a personalised way.

Embracing Renewal with Each Season

One of the most beautiful aspects of seasonal living is the opportunity each new season brings for renewal, reflection, and realignment. As the world around us shifts, we too can take stock of our lives and make adjustments to our health goals.

Spring, with its blooming flowers and longer days, is a time for rejuvenation and fresh starts. Summer encourages us to embrace vitality and activity. Autumn invites reflection and preparation, while winter is a season for rest and introspection. By tuning into these natural rhythms, we can continuously evolve and improve our health and well-being.

Adapting to Our Body’s Changing Needs

Our bodies are incredibly dynamic, their needs shifting not just with the seasons but throughout our lives. What worked for us in our twenties may not be suitable in our forties and beyond. Seasonal living teaches us to listen to our bodies and adjust accordingly. In winter, we might need more warming foods and restful activities. In summer, lighter meals and outdoor exercise become more appropriate. This adaptability ensures we remain in optimal health all year round and throughout our lives - what a gift!

The Joy of Embracing Change

There’s an undeniable excitement that comes with change. Each season is like a new chapter, filled with its own possibilities and adventures. Whether it’s trying out a new recipe with seasonal produce, taking up a seasonal physical activity, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, there’s always something to look forward to.

And the best part? It’s never too late to start. No matter your age or current health status, embracing seasonal living can bring positive changes to your life. Start small, perhaps by incorporating seasonal vegetables into your meals or taking a daily walk in nature. These little steps can lead to significant improvements in your health and happiness.

Seasonal living isn’t just a lifestyle choice; it’s a celebration of life’s ever-changing beauty. It’s about being present, embracing the now, and nurturing ourselves in harmony with the world around us. So, as the seasons change, let’s welcome the new opportunities they bring. Let’s reflect, realign, and renew our commitment to health and well-being, savouring the joy and wonder of every season.

Here’s to the magic of seasonal living! 🍂🌸🌞❄️

Get in touch with me at hello@itstheberries if you’d like a bespoke seasonal plan suited to you, your life stage and health needs.