For many of us, fall is a great time to get back into our regular routine of health, fitness, and wellness. As the leaves and temperatures change, so does our health routine. While summertime wellness includes fresh fruits, dips in the pool, and plenty of sunshine, caring for ourselves in the autumn looks a bit different. Cold and flu season, shorter days, and seasonal sweets can all be obstacles to feeling our best. 

Thankfully, we can fall into better habits with some simple changes to our daily wellness routine. These simple healthy tips will help all of us stay well all season long, so we can enjoy this cozy time of year!

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Healthy eating is key to our overall health, no matter the season. Filling your plate with plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats ensures your body receives the nutrients it needs. Seasonal fruits and veggies like apples, pears, carrots, broccoli, cabbage, squash, spinach, and of course, pumpkin are full of vitamins and offer a number of health benefits. Incorporate these whole foods into soups, stews, and other warm dishes to stay cozy this season. Healthy snacks can also keep you fueled throughout the day. 

2. Make Sure You are Getting Enough Vitamin D

 Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, controls your blood sugar, and even boosts immunity. Most of us get a healthy dose of Vitamin D in the summer, since the sun is a key source of vitamin D. However, short, grey days can diminish these levels. While loading up on Vitamin D rich foods like fish can help, you might want to talk to your doctor about adding a Vitamin D supplement. A supplement can give you the daily boost you need and may prevent a deficiency.

3. Don’t Forget to Hydrate

As the temperature drops, it can be easy to forget to hydrate but this healthy habit is just as important in the fall as it is in summer. The Institute of Medicine recommends 12 cups of water for men and nine for women. You’ll want to increase your intake when exercising, as your body loses hydration when you sweat. Keeping a water bottle on hand throughout the day can help you remember to take sips. Warm beverages like green tea are a comforting way to add extra hydration as well. 

4. Prioritize your Dental Health

Dental health is part of an overall healthy lifestyle. Apple crisp and pecan pie are some of the joys of autumn, but these sugary sweets can lead to dental chaos. Be sure to brush and floss daily to keep your pearly whites healthy this season. Schedule routine cleanings with your dentist as part of your preventative dental care.

5. Catch Enough ZZZ's

Getting enough sleep is key to a strong immune system, positive mood, and overall health. Try to get seven to nine hours of sleep per night regularly. If you struggle to fall asleep, consider developing a new healthy evening routine. Turn off your devices, log out of social media, and find activities to unwind. Reading a book, taking a warm bath, and listening to music can all help with relaxation before bed. 

6. Keep Moving

While it can be tempting to stay cozy and hibernate all season, exercise is essential to fall wellness. Take your dog for a walk, hike with a friend, or take a bike ride to get your heart pumping this season. Strength training, stretching, Pilates, and online workouts are all great ways to exercise indoors.

7. Care for Your Skin

Fall skin care should look a little different from your summer routine. As the air gets drier and you turn on the heat indoors, consider switching to a rich moisturizer to keep your skin smooth. And do not forget to keep wearing sunscreen as the season changes. The sun’s UV rays can still increase your skin cancer risk in the fall, so be sure to layer on the SPF before you head outdoors.

8. Schedule Your Checkups

Wellness screenings are central to healthy living, but summer’s busy schedule may have put our preventative care appointments on the back burner. Now that life is slowing down, it’s time to schedule your checkups. These appointments are an opportunity to talk to your doctor about any health concerns you may have before heading into the fall and winter. 

9. Rest and Allow Yourself to Take a Break

After the hustle and bustle of summer, many of us go into fall feeling a little drained and ready for a slower pace. Take some time to rest and recharge. Rest gives the body time to repair, rebuild, and strengthen itself, so don't feel guilty over taking some extra time to relax this fall. 

By prioritizing your overall health and wellness this season, you can feel your best as the temperature drops. Eat a balanced diet, check in with your mental health, and practice basic hygiene to keep yourself and your family healthy this fall.