002 autumn

It's not an original thought to say that I love Autumn and that it's my favorite time of year. Living in New York, I’m a little biased, as my favorite activity is visiting Central Park to watch the leaves turn a little more orange every week—a tradition that pairs perfectly with buying seasonal candles and wearing my “therapist cardigan” to work.

Beyond the surface, I find this time of year brings a renewed sense of hope. Autumn symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings. As humans, we can learn from nature; just as animals prepare for change, we too can embrace shifts in our lives.

Growing up, I eagerly anticipated Autumn, welcoming the start of a new school year and the promise of fresh supplies. This season feels like a chance to shed the old and embrace the new. With my clients, we've been exploring how Autumn can be an opportunity to release old habits, beliefs, or relationships to make space for something new, much like leaves falling from trees.

The falling leaves symbolize letting go of the past and embracing the present moment. It's a time to release negative emotions, regrets, or lingering memories. By adopting this mindset, the next few months can be a powerful period for setting new goals or finally starting that long-awaited project.

To truly benefit from this perspective, it's important to stay present. We often find ourselves nostalgic for the warmth of Summer (the past) or dreading the cold of Winter (the future), but this mindset can prevent us from appreciating the here and now. Every season has its positives and negatives, yet by focusing on the present, we allow ourselves to experience life as it unfolds. This approach not only grants us more control over our days but also empowers us to embark on new beginnings with a clearer, more mindful outlook.