Mindful Transitions: Finding Joy in the Changing Seasons

We are wrapping up the autumn (fall) season here in the northern hemisphere.

Changing seasons are one of the most magical experiences that nature offers us, and it’s free!

I remember my first few winters in the US — they were brutal. I hunkered down, constantly bracing and wishing for it to be over. For many winters, I suffered from seasonal mood changes.

However, over the years through mindfulness practices, I’ve come to embrace the seasons.

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I now look forward to each one — even the cold winter months! My attitude shifted from one of resistance and complaining to that of acceptance and even eagerness.

Today, I want to offer two mindset shifts that help us invite, celebrate, and enjoy the seasons.

1. Cultivate presence:

I used to live in a quaint little walkup in New York City, and from my window I could see a beautiful courtyard with creeper plants adorning the opposite building’s wall. One autumn day, I looked out the window and realized that I hadn’t noticed the leaves change color from verdant green to burnt orange. The transition was already complete.