Autumn Aches: Why Your Body Can Feel Different as the Weather Changes

There’s something lovely about autumn, isn’t there? Crisp mornings, changing leaves, cosy jumpers and the perfect excuse for a warming cup of tea.

But as the temperature drops and the evenings draw in, you might also notice that your body feels a little different. Perhaps you feel stiffer when you first get out of bed, your shoulders seem a little tighter, or it takes you longer to feel comfortable and loosened up in the morning.

If that sounds familiar, you’re certainly not alone.

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Is it really the colder weather?

People often tell me that they feel more stiff or achy when the weather turns colder. While everyone experiences this differently, the change in season can also bring changes to our everyday habits — and these can have an effect on how our bodies feel.

Think about your own routine during the summer months. You might spend more time outside, walk more, potter in the garden, head out after dinner or simply move around more because the days are longer.

Then autumn arrives.

The evenings become darker, the sofa becomes considerably more inviting, and suddenly that evening walk doesn't seem quite as appealing!

We may also spend more time sitting, whether that's watching television, reading, working from home or simply enjoying being cosy indoors.

None of those things are necessarily bad. Rest is important too. But our bodies generally appreciate regular, comfortable movement, and sometimes a small change in our daily routine can be enough for us to notice a difference.

Keep moving — but keep it realistic

When I talk about keeping moving, I don't mean you need to suddenly join a gym, start running or commit yourself to an elaborate exercise programme.

Movement can be very simple.

A short walk around the block, getting up from your chair regularly, doing a few gentle movements while the kettle boils or taking the stairs instead of the lift all count.

If you're working at a desk, try changing position regularly rather than remaining in exactly the same posture for long periods. If you've been sitting watching television, get up during the adverts or between programmes and have a little wander around.

Small amounts of movement throughout the day can soon add up.

Most importantly, listen to your own body. Movement should feel appropriate and comfortable for you. There is no prize for pushing yourself beyond what feels right.

Give yourself time to warm up

Autumn mornings can be a bit of a shock after the warmer summer months, particularly when you step out of a nice warm bed!

If you know you tend to feel a little stiff first thing, give yourself a few moments before launching straight into your day.

Gentle movement can be a pleasant way to get going. Roll your shoulders, move your arms and legs comfortably and allow yourself a little time to wake up properly.

The same applies if you're heading out for a walk, gardening or doing something more physically demanding. Rather than going from completely still to full speed, give your body a chance to get moving first.

And, of course, dressing warmly helps too. Autumn in Morecambe isn't always known for its tropical temperatures!

Notice what your body is telling you

One of the things I often encourage people to do is simply pay attention to how their body feels.

We can become very good at ignoring little signs of tension or discomfort when life is busy.

Perhaps you always seem to lift one shoulder when you're working at your computer. Maybe you spend hours in the same position without noticing. Or perhaps you've stopped taking your usual evening walk since the nights started drawing in.

Sometimes taking a moment to notice these little habits can help you identify simple changes that might make you feel more comfortable.

It doesn't need to become another thing to worry about. It's simply about becoming a little more aware of your own body and what feels good for you.

Making time for yourself this autumn

Autumn naturally encourages us to slow down a little. While keeping active is important, so is giving yourself permission to rest and recharge.

Clinical massage can be one way of making some dedicated time for yourself.

My treatments are always tailored to the individual. Before we begin, we'll talk about how you're feeling, what you've noticed and what you'd like from your appointment. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment — what feels right for one person may be completely different for another.

Depending on your needs and preferences, I can draw upon different approaches within my work as a clinical massage therapist, always working with you and within your comfort.

Enjoy the season

So, as we head further into autumn, don't feel that you have to battle against the season.

Enjoy the cosy evenings. Put the kettle on. Curl up with a good book.

Just remember to get up and move occasionally too!

A little regular movement, keeping comfortably warm, noticing how your body feels and making time for yourself can all become part of your autumn routine.

And if you feel you'd benefit from some dedicated time for you, you're always welcome to get in touch to discuss whether an appointment might be suitable.

Anne x