A Season of Transition

Sep 25

Summer has officially waved goodbye, and here we are, stepping into a new season, both literally and metaphorically. Not only is the crisp air of fall just around the corner, but it’s also that time of year when some of us head back to school, while others shift gears at work after a more relaxed season. Isn’t it funny how even anticipated transitions can still catch us off guard? Change sure has its way of keeping things interesting! Even when we know what’s coming, transitions can still feel like a whirlwind when we’re right in the middle of them.

Back to School: Emotions on the Move

For students, parents, and educators, the return to school is like a whirlwind of emotions. You’ve got excitement, anxiety, relief, and stress all in the mix during this transition. Suddenly, your calendar is packed with new routines and responsibilities, and the structured world of academics can feel worlds apart from the carefree days of summer. Plus, there’s a shift in your social connections—summer often means more time with family connections, while the school year invites you to focus on your social circle.

Work Mode: Shifting from Vacation Bliss

Transitioning back to full work mode after a season of relaxation and wanderlust can be a bit of a jolt. Ever heard of the “post-vacation blues”? Yep, it’s real. Going from leisure to full-throttle intensity can raise questions about your purpose and reactivate stress, depending on your relationship with your work and work environment. These feelings can weigh you down.

Nature’s Transition: A Change in Scenery

Meanwhile, Mother Nature is doing her thing in the background. This means a profound shift in our surroundings, welcomed by some and met with resistance by others. The vibrant autumn leaves, the crisp air, and the scents of fall can evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder. However, this seasonal change can also bring feelings of melancholy, often referred to as the “fall blues” or simply an awareness of colder days and less sunshine ahead.

....So now what? How do we move through it?!

Navigating your Emotions: Self-Care in Transition

You might have noticed that I’ve mentioned a bunch of mixed feelings and thoughts that could be swirling around inside you. That’s the first step in taking care of ourselves—not only during this transitional period but during any kind of change. Recognizing and acknowledging the complexity of our emotions is essential. There’s no need to go it alone—open communication and sharing your feelings can go a long way in easing anxieties. Especially since many of us are experiencing these transitions simultaneously, being open about our internal states can create a sense of safety and belonging.

Tools for Inner Calm: Practicing Mindfulness

This is also an ideal time to really dive into mindfulness and relaxation practices to manage any overwhelm. Being intentional about taking care of yourself during transitions is vital. Consider it an opportunity to discover new self-care and stress-management tools if your old ones aren’t doing the trick anymore. Reflect on your summer and vacation experiences and explore ways to incorporate what you learned about what relaxes you into your daily life, even in small increments.

Setting Boundaries and Expectations: Easing the Transition

Setting realistic goals and expectations during this in-between period can prevent you from feeling overwhelmed. If you sense some extra stress and anxiety as you adjust to the new pace, consider setting boundaries—both with yourself and others—to allow for some breathing room.

Embracing Change: New Beginnings and Self-Discovery

And lastly, is there anything to embrace about this new season? Transitioning into something new often brings opportunities for growth. Are there activities related to fall that spark your interest or joy? What are you learning about your needs and wants during this change? By being intentional about taking care of yourself amid a busier pace, you might discover more about yourself.

Connecting the Dots: Strength through Adaptability and Self-Compassion

As we embark on this season of change, keeping an open heart and mind can become a valuable practice in itself. By nurturing your mental health and staying attune to your emotional well-being, you can find strength and growth even in the face of change.

What ties all these transitions together—school, work, and the fall season—is the need for adaptability and self-compassion. Life is a constant ebb and flow of change, and your ability to navigate these shifts gracefully is a practice in resilience. But remember, it’s not just okay but important to seek support when you need it, whether from friends, family, or a therapist.

You deserve support. Always.

Take care,

Nathalie