Why do we love Autumn, A psychological exploration!

A study conducted in Japan demonstrated that an autumn foliage mountain landscape image had relaxing effects among women in their 20s. If just an image of the season can bring about such psychological changes, how much more can happen during the actual season?

In autumn, temperatures begin to drop, bridging the gap between summer’s intense heat and winter’s chill. The nights get longer, temperatures drop, and plants slow their growth. Animals also prepare for winter by storing food or migrating to warmer places. During this season, the changing colours of the leaves create a beautiful autumn palette, adding to the festivities that happen during this time.

With all this happening around, people generally have a unique love for this season. Beyond these environmental transformations, psychological perspectives contribute to our love for autumn. Let us dive in and explore.

The Color

What colour is autumn majorly associated with? 

Crunchy dried leaves all over the pavements, fresh pumpkins for Halloween and the bright diyas for Diwali. All these make autumn glow in Orange! Psychologically, orange is linked to feelings of optimism, adventure, and confidence. It can boost enthusiasm and spark creativity, making autumn a positive season.

The Contrast

Another major reason is the visual change that autumn brings. As the leaves turn from green to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, our brains react to these bright visual contrasts. From a young age, humans are drawn to such contrasts. Infants prefer high-contrast patterns, and this preference carries into adulthood. The changing colours of fall stimulate our brains and create a sense of excitement, making us more attentive and alert.

The Connection 

Autumn provides a special bond with nature. As the environment shifts, we’re reminded of life’s cycles and transformations. Being in nature has been shown to alleviate stress and boost mental health. The cool air and stunning autumn scenery create an ideal setting for outdoor activities, making us feel more grounded and centred.

The Chillness

After enduring the intense heat of the summer, the cooler autumn temperatures offer a refreshing relief. This drop in temperature has several psychological benefits, including better sleep quality, smoother emotional regulation and lesser irritability. The comfortable autumn weather encourages a better ambience for workouts and exercises, that in turn helps the mental health (and the physical health).

The Celebrations

During autumn, festivals like Navratri, Diwali, Halloween, and Thanksgiving bring a spirit of joyous celebration. These annual celebrations create a structure that many of us find reassuring. Engaging in rituals, or participating in community events, provides a sense of purpose and belonging. These activities not only bring joy but also reinforce our cultural identity and strengthen our social bonds. This provides positive effects on our personal as well as social well-being. 

The comfort, nostalgia and memories that autumn gives us make it the favourite of all seasons. We now know the psychological reason behind our inclination towards the fall. Let us also see a disorder associated with this seasonal change.

Read More: Importance of Good Memories in Our Life

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a recurring type of major depression where episodes align with specific seasons each year. Often referred to as “winter blues,” many people notice symptoms during fall and winter that typically improve by spring. Alternatively, some may experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as summer depression, beginning in late spring or early summer and lifting by fall.

These mood changes may be linked to the varying amount of daylight throughout the year. This disorder manifests mostly as moderate or mild depression. But for a few people, it does affect their daily functioning. Let us now look at how we can look after our mental health during autumn and improve our well-being.

5 things to do in Autumn for better mental health 

1. Take nature walks: A walk through a park or garden to enjoy the colourful foliage can be calming and refreshing. It improves the mood and reduces stress. Also, it gets you your dose of vitamin D.
2. Regular Exercise: Jogging or cycling on cool autumn mornings can energize your body and mind. Regular physical activity has been proven to lessen feelings of anxiety and depression.
3. Meditate Outdoors: Sit in a quiet park, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing while listening to the sounds of nature. Meditation helps with emotion regulation and mindfulness.
4. Celebrate events: Engaging in events like Diwali, Thanksgiving, Navratri, etc. fosters a sense of community and belonging, which can enhance psychological well-being. Participating in cultural and religious festivities provides a break from routine and brings joy.
5. Reading Books: Autumn’s cosy weather makes it perfect for reading. Reading fiction, in particular, can improve empathy and reduce stress by allowing you to immerse yourself in different worlds and perspectives.

To conclude, our love for autumn stems from psychological influences. The vibrant colours, connection to nature, lowered temperature, and never-ending celebrations all contribute to why we find this season so enchanting. So, as you enjoy the cold breeze and crisp leaves, remember that there are fascinating psychological reasons behind your appreciation for autumn.

FAQs

1. What makes us love autumn or fall?

The vibrant colours, connection to nature, lowered temperature and never-ending celebrations all contribute to why we find this season so enchanting.

2. What is SAD?

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a recurring type of major depression where episodes align with specific seasons each year.

3. Are there treatments for SAD?

Yes, Light therapy and Mindfulness based CBT can be helpful 

4. What activities can one do during autumn for a healthy mental well-being?

Nature walks, exercise, meditation, reading books, etc.

Read More from Psychologs

• Seasonal Affective Disorder: Understanding how the weather affects our mood
• With the increase in temperature, are Heat Waves now increasing the probability of Seasonal Affective Disorder?
• Weather Wonders: How the Elements Shape Your Mood and Sleep
• Eco-Anxiety: Climate Change and Its Impact on Mental Health