Look Forward to Something

Fall where I live means shorter days, less sunlight, more rain, and colder weather. I realized after my Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, that seasonal shifts to spring and fall are times when I’m more susceptible to MS exacerbations. I used to worry about it, and it’s taken a lot of effort to feel more confident approaching seasonal changes.

My usual approach is:

1. When things are tough, take inventory of what’s tough, what will help, and what’s helped before; and

2. Look forward to something.

For the first item in my approach, check out my post, Seasonal Well-Being Checklists, for some practical tips for coping with season changes. With this post, I’ll focus on the second one: Looking forward to something.  

It’s easy to focus on the season's challenges, but it’s helpful to acknowledge and take advantage of the benefits.

Shorter days mean sunrises are later in the morning, and I’m more likely to be awake to enjoy them. Many of my favorite sunrise photographs and moments of enjoying them were in the fall. Earlier sunsets and darkness also make it less difficult to get to bed and fall asleep. 

Shorter days also mean earlier sunset and darkness. I chased the Aurora Borealis in May this year and managed to see them spectacularly.  That evening I saw them lightly at 10:00 pm and stayed up until 1:30 am to capture the show.  It took a toll on me staying up so late, and it was worth it to me to see them for the first time. Tonight, I saw them at 8:00 pm and am still able to go to bed at a decent hour. They might not be as incredible this time, but I loved it and won’t need a couple days to recover from staying up late. 

Colder weather means I’m more comfortable outside and don’t need to worry about heat-induced MS symptoms. When the weather isn’t as warm and sunny, I feel less pressure to be outside. Spending time indoors feels more cozy, comforting, and relaxing. 

October brings Halloween and autumn foliage. Seeing photos from friends and family of kids enjoying the fall season is delightful. I love seeing their pumpkin patch outings, apple orchard picking, and Halloween costumes. I enjoy giving candy to trick-or-treaters and admiring their costumes. 

Early autumn brings low-pressure Thanksgiving and Christmas planning. Planning early for decorations, cards, gifts, and get-togethers can be done with excited anticipation rather than last-minute anxiety and stress. 

When I focus on what I enjoy with the season, it brightens my outlook and makes coping with challenges a bit easier.