Word to the Wise Woman

As we move through October, I find myself reflecting on the interplay of seasonality with our wellness journey—a phenomenon recently discussed in Forbes as the "October Theory." This concept explores the transformational potential of October as a period to intentionally shift habits and mindsets. At Columbia’s Teachers College, where I study the connection between spirit, mind, and body, I’m constantly reminded of how the environment affects not just our mood but also our physiological and emotional responses. The seasonal transition is one of nature’s prompts to tune inward, observe, and prepare. The shift in weather affects more than our wardrobe; it has a measurable impact on our physiology. For example, colder days and fewer sunlight hours can slow our nervous systems, triggering more sluggish energy levels, altering our sleep cycles, and impacting our mental and emotional responses. When we become aware of these seasonal rhythms, we gain an opportunity to make adjustmen...