The Vitalist Approach to Seasonal Transition

Evergreen forest on Mt. Pierce in the White Mountains.

Embracing the Seasons: The Vitalist Approach to Fall

In vitalist herbalism, the seasons aren’t just weather changes; they are energetic shifts that influence our bodies, minds, and spirits. As we move from summer’s fiery energy into the cooling, grounding force of fall, it’s essential to realign ourselves with these rhythms.

Vitalism teaches that fall is a time for slowing down, conserving energy, and strengthening our connection to the earth. The body naturally begins to transition inward, seeking warmth, grounding, and nourishment. This is the season for reflection, for nurturing our roots, and for preparing our bodies for the colder, darker days ahead.

To support this transition, consider incorporating daily grounding practices, such as walking in nature, meditation, or mindful breathing. Vitalist herbalism suggests herbs like ashwagandha and reishi, which help the body adapt to change and maintain balance. Warming herbs like ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric can be incorporated into teas or meals to stoke the digestive fire and keep the body in harmony.

Herbal Tip: Brew a warming tea with ginger, cinnamon, and star anise with a touch of raw local honey to keep your digestion strong and your body warm as the weather cools.

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Taking Back Your Health

We’ve all been there before, at the crossroads of where we are and where we want to be. Most succumb to complacency, but there are those who have the tenacity to endure what it takes to make the changes necessary to progress forward.

So you want to change. Awesome. Are you committed to actually making the changes you desire?

If you want to lose weight, it’s not merely about calorie deficits and diets.
If you want to avoid toxins, it’s not simply about buying products labeled “organic”.
If you want to be healthier overall, you need to do more than just run a mile per day, or do a few power squats.

It’s about adjusting your mindset and lifestyle. It’s about self discipline, and having the desire to learn, grow and be better a little bit each day.

Working with clients, I see this a lot. People complain and ask why they aren’t losing weight yet in a particular program, yet upon asking them about their lifestyle, it’s clear they have yet to do the hard work. Signing up for a program isn’t a cure all — there’s a lot of work to be done on an individual level.

No matter how many diets you go on, when said diet comes to an end, most are back where they started before long. Adopting a different lifestyle will set you up for success now and in the future. Changing your mindset will set you up for success not just in the health and wellness department, but in life itself. You have to commit to doing the thing you don't want to do in order to get to where you want to be. You have to give up the things that are holding you back. Cut them out of your life and replace with something better. It’s really that simple.

Make the commitment and stick to it. You’re the only one standing in your way.