THE FUSE

People keep saying Autumn is here early, the weather sure is gloomy enough, but before we all panic, we thought we would start romanticising the changes now, before the blues set in.

South Africa (04 March 2026) – Have you noticed it? The slight shift in your energy levels, the need to stay in bed a little longer in the mornings, and the light fading sooner each day. It’s happening, and a little sooner than we like (although we always say that). Winter is coming… But first, autumn.

I am not ready. I find myself feeling grumpier when the skies are grey. In South Africa, most of us are solar powered, and I don’t mean by the panels on our state-proofed roofs. Losing our full sunny days can feel gloomy, no, sorry, it is gloomy! But fear not, because if we intentionally celebrate the cosy moments, we can absolutely shift our mindsets (she whispers to herself in the hope of making it true).

It’s completely normal to feel a little flatter when the days shorten. Less light can tug at energy levels and mood. You are not failing at life. Your body is simply responding to the season. Instead of fighting it, what if we leaned in gently and made the shift work for us?

Start with light. Chase it where you can, step outside in the morning, even if it’s just to stand in the sun with your favourite warm drink for five quiet minutes. I personally love this because the sun makes a sunny appearance (bar the clouds we are currently experiencing in Joburg) right into our lounge, and winter mornings are for soaking in the early morning glow.

Then, even if it’s a bit chilly, open every curtain, let as much natural light in. Dress warm to combat any chill and move around so you get the best light. Morning light tells your brain it’s time to wake up properly, and that small nudge can change the tone of the whole day.

If it is a gloomy day, turn on your lights. If you have stark lightbulbs, switch them for warmer lighting. Light a seasonal candle and wrap yourself in a cosy blanket on the couch. In 2021, I wrote a piece about the Danish concept of Hygge, and it’s still relevant today. Embracing the charm of winter sure makes it easier to live with, and the Danes know what they are talking about!

Let’s romanticise the colder months. This is one of the biggest aids in helping me move past the winter blues. Create pockets of comfort that you can look forward to makes it so much easier to ease into the cold months. Although I am still hoping endless summer days…

Lean into grounding routines. Autumn is perfect for resetting habits without the pressure of “new year, new me.” Think gentle upgrades instead of dramatic overhauls. Set a goal to do a short daily walk. As soon as the weather clears, go for a 10-minute walk around the block, your complex (or do some brisk window shopping if it’s all just gloom outside). It keeps you healthy, and I have never come back from a quick walk and felt miserable, except for that one time it rained out of nowhere…

Touch your toes before climbing into bed. Read a book instead of sitting on your phone. Take up a “Granny Hobby” (we have a 2025 and 2026 must-try granny hobbies series you can enjoy). These are simple shifts that can add value to your life while you slow down for the seasons to come.

And then comes the food! I adore winter soups, stews, and buttery dumplings with all the sides. Learn to cook a chicken pie (a classic and so delicious) or any pie for that matter. It’s a great way to keep busy and nourished through the colder months. However, it is definitely a weekend meal for when you have more time. My favourite is chicken pie soup… It’s all the same flavours, minus the pastry work.

People keep saying Autumn has arrived early, and while that may or may not be true, getting a head start on boosting your mood when it’s really here matters!

You are allowed to meet the season with intention instead of dread. I am going to give it a try and I hope you will too!

Sources: Good Things Guy

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