Autumn Slump: Why You’re More Tired and How to Bounce Back

If you’ve been feeling unusually sluggish and tired with the sudden chill in the air, you might be experiencing what’s known as autumn fatigue syndrome. Let’s delve deeper into this seasonal condition.

Autumn fatigue occurs as your body adjusts to the seasonal shift from summer to fall’s cool temperatures. Just like spring fatigue, which comes with the transition from winter to spring, autumn fatigue can leave us feeling depleted as our bodies acclimate to cooler weather.

People affected by autumn fatigue may find it challenging to wake up in the morning or feel weighed down and easily exhausted during daily activities. Drowsiness and indigestion are also common symptoms.

Getting sufficient sleep is essential for combating autumn fatigue. Experts recommend 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help reset the body’s biological rhythms. A consistent sleep schedule becomes crucial, with seasonal changes disrupting our biological clocks.

Though a nap may seem tempting, napping during the day can further disturb your body’s rhythm and even tire you. If you need to nap, limit it to 20-30 minutes.

Cooler mornings and early dusk during fall can also lead to shallow sleep, so paying attention to your bedding and sleepwear can make a big difference. For optimal comfort, regularly ventilate your room and aim to keep the humidity level between 50% and 60%.

Proper nutrition is vital for recovering from fatigue. Vitamins B and C are particularly important. Vitamin B can be found in whole grains like barley and pork, while Vitamin C is abundant in fruits like kiwi and strawberries and vegetables such as peppers, lettuce, and tomatoes. Among autumn seasonal foods, pears, chestnuts, radishes, and pomegranates are rich in both nutrients.

While you may feel weighed down, regular light exercises—like walking, cycling, or stretching can help invigorate your body.

For busy professionals and students who struggle to find time, incorporating short breaks every 1-2 hours or a short walk during lunch breaks can make a significant difference.