As summer fades and autumn arrives, we often notice changes in more than just the weather. The mornings become cooler, the evenings draw in, and many of us start to dress differently and spend more time indoors. But seasonal changes can also influence how we move, how we hold our bodies and even how much water we drink!
 Why do we change the way we hold ourselves when it gets colder?
When we feel cold, it is natural to make ourselves smaller. We may lift our shoulders towards our ears, tuck our chin down, round our upper back or fold our arms across our body in an attempt to keep warm. You may not even realise you’re doing it! If this happens repeatedly, or if we spend long periods in one position, the muscles around the neck, shoulders and upper back may spend more time working or feeling tense. It’s not necessarily the cold itself that is the problem. It’s usually the combination of temperature, posture, muscle tension and changes in activity levels that influence how our bodies feel.
Less movement, more stiffness
As the weather gets colder and the evenings become darker, our routines often change too. We may spend more time sitting indoors, take fewer walks or swap outdoor activities for time chilling on the sofa. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying a cosy autumn evening, our bodies still benefit from regular movement. Staying in one position for long periods can leave us feeling stiff, particularly if we’re already holding ourselves differently because we’re cold.
Small amounts of movement throughout the day can make a difference. Getting up from your desk, taking a short walk, moving your shoulders or simply changing position regularly can all help keep your body moving.
Don’t forget to drink!
One seasonal change that is easy to overlook is how much water we drink. During the warmer months, thirst and sweating can remind us to drink regularly. When temperatures drop, we may simply feel less thirsty and reach for water less often. However, our bodies still need fluids throughout the day, whatever the season.
Good hydration supports normal body function, including the normal function of muscles and joints. If we’re busy, sitting indoors with a hot drink or simply not feeling thirsty, it’s surprisingly easy for our fluid intake to drop without noticing. You don’t need to wait until you’re very thirsty to have a drink. Keeping a bottle or glass of water nearby can be a simple reminder to drink regularly.
A few autumn habits for a happier body
As the seasons change, try these simple habits:
🧣 Keep warm
Appropriate layers can help you feel comfortable and may reduce the tendency to constantly hunch or tense your shoulders against the cold.
🚶 Keep moving
Try not to let colder weather completely change your activity levels. Regular walking and gentle movement can help prevent you from becoming stiff and restricted.
💧 Keep drinking
Remember that your need for fluids doesn’t disappear when summer ends. Keep water accessible and make drinking regularly part of your routine.
🪑 Change position
There isn’t one perfect posture that you need to maintain all day. Instead, aim for variety and avoid staying in the same position for too long.
🧘 Take a moment to relax
If you notice your shoulders creeping upwards or your jaw clenching when you’re cold or stressed, pause, take a few slow breaths and allow your muscles to relax.
Listen to your body this autumn
Our bodies are constantly adapting to our environment. Changes in temperature, activity, clothing, daily routines, posture and hydration can all influence how we feel.
Keep warm. Keep moving. Keep hydrated.
A little awareness of how we’re treating our bodies throughout the day can go a long way towards helping us stay comfortable and active as we move into the colder months.
This Autumn, if you notice that you feel stiffer, more restricted or simply not moving as freely as you normally do, don’t just put it down to the change in weather. Sometimes your body may benefit from a little attention and a closer look at how you’re moving.
If this sounds familiar, book in for a free assessment or initial consultation!
We can take the time to listen to what’s been going on, assess how you’re moving and discuss whether chiropractic care may be appropriate for you.
Don’t wait until a small niggle becomes a bigger problem, get your body moving comfortably into autumn. 🍂