Simple ways to support your energy, emotions and wellbeing as the seasons change.
This week, I caught up with a friend who was visiting London.
We first met on a CPD course in Facial and Foot Neuro-Reflex Therapy for Emotional Release, and it was lovely to see her again.
Naturally, we ended up talking about how much we both love this work.
The brain, our emotions, our thoughts and our body — the way they interact is endlessly fascinating.
We really are such fascinating beings.
The more I learn, the more curious I become. Perhaps that’s one of the things I love most about being a holistic therapist. There is always more to discover.
Our conversation reminded me that looking after our mental and emotional wellbeing isn’t separate from looking after our body.
And it isn’t always about doing less.
Sometimes self-care is about responding differently to what we need.
What does it mean to feel balanced?
When we talk about regulating ourselves, we might imagine feeling calm and relaxed all the time.
But I don’t think balance means never feeling tired, worried, frustrated or overwhelmed.
Sometimes we need to rest. Sometimes we need to move, eat something nourishing, connect with someone or ask for support.
Our sleep, physical comfort, emotions, hormones and everyday experiences can all influence how we feel.
Rather than trying to control every feeling, perhaps we can begin by noticing what is happening and asking what might help.
Autumn and the art of returning to balance
In traditional Chinese Five Element philosophy, autumn is associated with the Metal element, the Lung and Large Intestine, and the themes of receiving and letting go.
I like this as a seasonal reminder to notice what we may be holding on to, and what we need to receive.
As the days become shorter and the mornings cooler, our routines and energy may change.
So how can we support ourselves in simple, everyday ways?
Four gentle ways to support your mind and body this autumn
1. When your energy dips, pause before pushing through
An afternoon slump can have many causes, from a busy day to not eating enough or sleeping well.
Before automatically reaching for another coffee, perhaps ask yourself:
Have I had enough water?
Do I need something nourishing?
Would a short walk or some fresh air help?
You might also like to try a little gentle self-massage.
Place three fingers just below your collarbone, towards the front of your shoulder, and softly stroke towards the crease of your armpit a few times on each side.
Use light pressure and stop if anything feels uncomfortable.
It isn’t a scientifically established way to boost brain function. Think of it simply as a moment to pause, reconnect with your body and notice how you feel.
2. When your jaw or shoulders feel tight, notice first
Have you ever realised you’ve been clenching your jaw or raising your shoulders without noticing?
Tension can have many causes, including posture, physical activity and stress.
Before trying to change anything, just notice.
Then perhaps let your jaw rest comfortably, gently move your shoulders or take a short stretch break.
Sometimes a small change can make a difference to how comfortable we feel.
3. When your mind feels busy, return to the present
If your thoughts are racing, try placing both feet on the floor.
Look around and notice three things you can see.
Take a few comfortable breaths.
You don’t need to empty your mind or force yourself to feel calm.
Perhaps this little pause will give you enough space to decide what you need next.
4. When emotions feel unsettled, ask what you need
Sometimes we are quick to judge ourselves for feeling sad, worried, irritated or overwhelmed.
But perhaps we don’t need to change the feeling immediately.
Instead, try asking yourself:
What am I feeling?
What might I need?
What is one small thing I can do to support myself today?
It might be a warm meal, music, a walk, creative time, a conversation with a friend or some professional support.
There isn’t one right answer for everyone.
And what supports you today may be different from what you need tomorrow.
Why I’m fascinated by Facial and Foot Neuro-Reflex Therapy
Catching up with my friend reminded me how much I love learning about the connections between our physical and emotional experiences.
We met while studying a Facial and Foot Neuro-Reflex Therapy protocol focused on emotional release.
What interests me is the opportunity to offer gentle, hands-on care while staying curious about the complexity of the human body.
A treatment doesn’t need to produce a particular emotional response to be worthwhile.
For me, it’s about offering space to pause, receive care and notice how you feel.
Facial and Foot Neuro-Reflex Therapy is a complementary wellbeing treatment, rather than a treatment for neurological or mental health conditions.
A little extra support this autumn
To mark World Mental Health Day on 10 October, I’m offering £10 off two treatments until 13 October 2026.
Reiki: Usually £120 → £110
Facial & Foot Neuro-Reflex Therapy (75 minutes): Usually £150 → £140
If you’d like to take advantage of the offer, please contact me directly by 13 October to book.
Following the closure of triyoga, all my treatments are now available at HomeWellness Primrose Hill, London, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Saturday appointments are likely to fill up quickly, while Tuesdays offer more flexibility and a quieter, more relaxed pace.
If you have some flexibility during the week, Tuesday could be a lovely time to come in and receive some care.
One small question for this autumn
The more I learn about the body and mind, the more I appreciate that wellbeing isn’t about finding one perfect routine.
Sometimes we need rest.
Sometimes movement.
Sometimes nourishment, creativity, connection or support.
And sometimes, before doing anything at all, we simply need to notice.
What would support me today?
With warmth,
Naomi 🌿