As we move from spring into summer in Australia, many of us feel a shift in our energy levels. The transition to warmer weather can leave our physical and mental batteries a little drained. The reasons vary—from increased social activity to a higher demand for outdoor exercise and a busier lifestyle. As we embrace longer days and more active schedules, it’s important to understand how auto-regulation can help maintain our energy.
- Listen to Your Body: Auto-regulation encourages self-awareness. With the change in season, you might feel more fatigued after outdoor activities in the heat. Practical Tip: Use a perceived exertion scale (1-10) during exercise. If you’re above a 7 and feeling fatigued, lower the intensity until you’re in a more comfortable range. You can also use this scale in relation to overall fatigue levels on a day to day basis. If your fatigue level is closer to 7/10 then it may not be the day to attend two Christmas parties and try to hit the gym. Perhaps choose one, and prioritise some rest.
- Sleep and Recovery: Warmer temperatures can affect sleep quality, which directly impacts physical and mental energy. Prioritise rest and recovery to restore your battery. Practical tip: Try to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep, and put in place some good sleep hygiene, including regular bedtime and waking time, turning off your devices at a minimum 60 minutes before bed.
- Balance and Flexibility: With more daylight hours, there’s often pressure to be more active, but balance is key. Practical Tip: Plan flexible workout routines. On low-energy days, replace intense sessions with low-impact activities like yoga or walking to stay active without over-stressing the body. It is a great idea to have an ‘either/or’ exercise plan. If the weather is extremely hot or stormy, doing a home based indoor circuit may be preferable to going for a run outdoors. By staying in tune with your body’s natural rhythms, you can keep your energy levels steady throughout the changing seasons.
