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3 Ways to Combat Anxiety This Fall STAFF REPORT F ALL : THE SEASON WHEN THE LEAVES START TO CHANGE COLOR , AND THE SUMMER SAYS THE LAST OF ITS GOODBYES . F ALL IS THE SEASON TO START WEARING COZY SWEATERS , DRINK SPICED TEAS , AND PULL OUT ALL OF YOUR WINTER CLOTHES FROM THE BACK OF THE DRAWER ( AND MAYBE FIND A H ALLOWEEN COSTUME WHILE YOU ' RE THERE ). ut fall isn't all pumpkin spiced lattes and gorgeous Instagrams of the leaves changing. This time of year can also be full of anxiety. Autumn signals the start of school, and reg- ular work hours (bye-bye summer half-days!). The days start to get shorter, and the sun doesn't stick around for quite as long. It's also often a season for change-- with friends moving away, starting new jobs, or focusing on other things. If you have anxiety, this change can put a damper on fall. Here are five ways to help you get over those autumn blues so you can enjoy those autumn leaves instead: 1. G ET O UTSIDE Sure, it may require an extra sweater, but the trip out of your bed will be worth it. Once you're outside, take a deep breath and count to 10. If you feel anxiety coming on at any point while you're out, take a breath and do this again, and then a third time. Notice any smells that might be around you, such as the earth, freshly mowed grass, apples. Try to identify at least two aromas. That will help you focus on what's around you. Plus, a walk outside is built-in exercise. 2. S TART M ORNINGS WITH A C UP OF T EA Put on the kettle, grab your favorite flavor, and settle down with a nice, hot cup of tea. Before you start your day, take time to meditate. Use the steam from the tea to create a calm space. Don't pick up your phone, and leave all the distractions in another room. This time is for you to sit and enjoy a single cup of tea. Focusing on one action and allowing yourself to enjoy it helps to slow down the brain. 3. O RGANIZE Y OUR S PACE It's hard to have a clear mind when your personal space is a mess. Your eyes get drawn to the clutter, and your brain responds in kind. Instead, take some time to organize your space. Clear out any trash from your tables, and stack books or documents neatly. Those summer magazines may be ready to recycle. Wrap up cords and put them away (there are plenty of great DIY ideas on Pinterest on how to hide them). When your space demands less attention from you, you'll have more energy to focus on your day. Although fall is a season of change, it doesn't have to be one filled with anxiety. By incorporating a few daily rituals into your routine, you can free up your mind to enjoy this beautiful season. n 34 AL/ Metro 360 www.almetro360.com We can be there when you can’t. Helping seniors live well at home. Soins HomeCareAssistanceMontgomery.com | Call us today: 334-593-3988 B