Why Fall Feels So Good: Insights from a Trauma-Informed Therapist
As a trauma therapist in California and Florida with experience supporting adults who grew up with childhood trauma, I love exploring how the seasons, especially fall, influence our mood, behaviors, and sense of comfort.
Fall can feel magical for many, but why? It’s more than just the pumpkin spiced lattes, even though they do add so much joy. Here are some reasons, rooted in both brain science and lived experience, that people love this time of year:
1. Conditioning
From childhood, we are conditioned to associate certain seasons with particular experiences. If your family leaned into fall festivities, seasonal traditions, or special moments, your brain may now automatically link fall with positive memories and feelings.
2. Sensory Comfort Zone
Fall offers a sweet spot for sensory comfort. The weather is usually not too hot or cold, and you can rotate between light and heavier clothing. For those sensitive to temperature, this seasonal shift can feel like a relief and a source of subtle joy.
3. High Demand, Low Supply
Certain things only appear in the fall, like those pumpkin spice lattes, apple picking, pies, and seasonal fairs. Anticipation for these limited-time experiences sparks excitement and can enhance the season’s overall enjoyment.
4. Association with Productivity
Even if school is behind us, our bodies still respond to the September “reset” from years of schooling. This often leads to surges in productivity, goal setting, and motivation, a natural internal clock kicking in that explains why many people start new projects or seek therapy during the fall.
Mind-Body Awareness for a Trauma-Informed Fall
As a trauma therapist in Los Angeles, California, and Florida, I encourage clients to notice how the season impacts them. Are there moments of anxiety, pressure, or excitement that feel amplified? Recognizing these patterns through trauma-informed therapy can help you engage with the season intentionally, integrating mindfulness, sensory awareness, and emotional processing for a more grounded, joyful experience.
Fall can be a time of reflection, excitement, and comfort. Use it as a time to honor both your past experiences and your present needs, creating a season that feels safe, nurturing, and meaningful.
