Welcoming fall with movement and gratitude
By Dr. Wendy Coburn | One Village Family Chiropractic Community
As fall settles into Edmonton, I find myself thinking about the changes we can see and the ones we carry more quietly. The trees change colour. Our routines shift. Families move into new stages, and our own needs may change along with them.
At this time of year, it can be easy to fill the calendar before asking what we need. I would like to offer a small invitation: make room for something that helps you enjoy the season you are in.
My yoga teacher training has given me language for ideas I have been reflecting on in everyday life and in practice. One of those is santosha, or contentment. To me, it means learning to appreciate what is present while still making thoughtful changes. We can care about our future and find something to value in today.
Let movement include enjoyment
When you think about moving your body, what do you look forward to? Perhaps it is yoga, a walk with your dogs, swimming, or time outdoors with your family. Perhaps it is something you used to enjoy and would like to try again.
Begin with an amount and an activity that suit you now. A short walk can be a worthwhile starting point. So can a few comfortable movements during a break in your day. If an activity feels difficult or uncomfortable, that is a reason to ask questions and consider how it could be adapted.
In our chiropractic practice, we want to understand what matters to you: getting down on the floor with your children, enjoying a round of golf, or feeling more comfortable through your workday. Your history, assessment, and goals help guide a discussion about appropriate care.
Notice what is good without rushing past what is hard
Gratitude does not require us to pretend that every season is easy. You may be navigating loss, a family transition, or the demands of caring for others. There can still be a moment worth noticing: warm sunshine on a cool afternoon, a conversation that leaves you feeling understood, or a favourite meal shared with someone you love.
Try naming one specific thing at the end of the day. Let it be simple. Some days, it may be the fact that you gave yourself time to rest.
Make a little room for yourself
Yoga also invites self-awareness through svadhyaya. One question I am sitting with is whether my daily choices reflect what I say matters to me. If joy matters, have I left room for it? If movement matters, is there an inviting place for it in my week?
For the coming week, choose one enjoyable activity and decide when it could realistically happen. You might take a walk before supper, meet a friend for a class, or set aside time to paint or read. Consider what you could simplify to make that space possible.
As we move into fall, I hope you find moments of connection with your body, the people you love, and the world around you. We would love to hear what you are enjoying this season.
Warmly,
Dr. Wendy Coburn
One Village Family Chiropractic Community