The Summer-to-Fall Shift: Your Body Is Adjusting Too

One minute it’s 8 p.m. and you’re on a patio. The next, the sun is disappearing earlier, your calendar has opinions, and your alarm clock is suddenly management.

Turns out, your body notices the transition too.

Light is one of the strongest signals regulating our circadian rhythm—the internal clock that influences when we feel awake and when we’re ready to sleep. Research has found measurable seasonal changes in sleep and circadian timing as daylight patterns shift, including later sleep timing during fall and winter.

Then September adds its own special charm: more commuting, more desk time and considerably fewer afternoons devoted to doing absolutely nothing.

That matters too. Research has found associations between sedentary behaviour and certain types of musculoskeletal discomfort, although the relationship varies depending on how and where that sitting occurs.

So if you feel a little different as summer turns to fall, it isn't necessarily an objection to sweater weather. Your body may simply be responding to changes in daylight, sleep, movement and routine.

Get outside. Keep moving. Protect your sleep.

And perhaps give your internal clock a moment to realize patio season has officially ended.

Sources:Dunster et al., Journal of Pineal Research (2023).Kantermann et al., Current Biology (2007).Dzakpasu et al., Int. J. Behavioral Nutrition & Physical Activity (2021).