Why You Feel Sleepier When the Leaves Change: The Science Behind Fall Fatigue
Have you ever noticed that, right around when the leaves start changing color, you find yourself yawning more? Maybe that afternoon slump seems a little deeper, or the mornings feel harder to face. You’re not alone. It’s that time of year—when the days get shorter, the air crisper, and suddenly everyone seems to be dragging a little more than usual.
So, what’s going on? Why do we feel more tired in the fall?
Blame It On The Sun (Or Lack Of It)
The biggest reason we feel sleepier when fall arrives is due to the decrease in daylight. The human body is highly sensitive to light—it’s one of the main signals our brains use to figure out whether we should be awake or asleep. When sunlight starts fading earlier in the day, our circadian rhythm, which is essentially our internal clock, gets thrown off.
Less light means more melatonin production. Melatonin is a hormone that signals your body that it’s time to sleep, and the reduced daylight hours mean our body starts producing it earlier than usual. That can make you feel like it’s time to crawl into bed, even if it’s only 6 p.m.
Seasonal Mood Shifts and Energy Levels
On top of the shift in light, our mood can also take a hit during fall, and that impacts how tired we feel. For some people, the shorter days can trigger a decrease in serotonin—the feel-good chemical that keeps us upbeat. When serotonin levels drop, we tend to feel sluggish, fatigued, and less motivated. That’s why some people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that comes and goes with the seasons, typically peaking during the fall and winter months.
Even if you don’t have full-blown SAD, many of us feel some version of the “fall blues,” where we just don’t have the same energy as we do in the summer. It’s like nature itself is slowing down, and our bodies want to follow suit.
Your Body Is Preparing To Hibernate
Humans may not actually hibernate, but our biology is still wired in a way that makes us respond to seasonal changes. In fall, our bodies instinctively begin conserving energy. As temperatures drop, our metabolism slows down a bit, and we might crave heavier, carb-rich comfort foods. This is an evolutionary adaptation designed to keep us fueled through the winter. Unfortunately, all those pasta dishes and cozy casseroles can also make us feel sleepier.
Plus, cooler temperatures naturally encourage us to seek warmth and comfort—things that also trigger relaxation and make us more likely to want to curl up and rest. It’s no wonder the couch becomes extra appealing once fall rolls around.
How To Beat Fall Fatigue
- Get Outside Early: Exposure to natural light first thing in the morning helps regulate your circadian rhythm and signals to your body that it’s time to be awake. Even on cloudy days, getting outside can make a difference.
- Keep A Consistent Sleep Schedule: With the changes in light, your body might need a little extra routine. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day will help reinforce a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
- Light Therapy: If you’re really struggling, using a light therapy box can help mimic the natural sunlight your body is craving and boost those serotonin levels.
- Watch Your Diet: Fall comfort foods are great, but balance them with lighter meals and plenty of vegetables. Eating too many heavy meals can contribute to that sluggish feeling.
Lean In, But Don’t Lose Momentum
Remember, some of this fall fatigue is natural. Instead of fighting it entirely, lean into it a little. Let your body rest when it needs to, but make sure you’re supporting it with good habits—light, movement, and consistency—to keep from going full-on bear mode until spring.
And if you need a little extra help getting quality sleep as the seasons change, you can always reach for Sleep Remedy. It’s designed to work with your body’s natural rhythms, helping you fall asleep and stay asleep, no matter what time of year it is.
Sleep Remedy
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Doc Parsley’s Sleep Remedy is a natural sleep aid, formulated with a blend of calming nutrients to help you fall asleep faster and improve your sleep quality. Doctor-developed and recommended, it’s non-habit forming and safe for daily use.