As the days turn cooler and routines shift, it’s a good time to focus on small steps that support your wellbeing with TSC
The seasons are beginning to change, bringing fresher weather, colourful leaves and shorter days. For people living with TSC, these changes can sometimes feel more noticeable. It may feel like a transitional period, especially if you’re managing new school timetables, balancing healthcare appointments, or simply adapting to a cooler climate.
Autumn also brings a chance to pause, reflect, and find comfort in smaller, slower moments. To help you and your loved ones adapt to the changing seasons, here are some tips for boosting your wellbeing as we head into the Autumn months.
Make time for small joys
As the seasons change, it’s important to keep space for the things that lift your mood, even if it’s just for five minutes each day. That could mean having your favourite warm drink, going for a short walk and noticing the changing colours of the leaves, or listening to music you love. You might want to start a new hobby, pick up an old one, or spend more time on activities that help you feel calm and grounded. Small joys can make a big difference.
Remember that it’s important to try and get as much natural sunlight as possible during the darker days and weeks. This can help to boost your mood and energy levels.
Nourish yourself with seasonal food
Diet can play an important role in how we feel, both physically and mentally. As the weather cools, many of us naturally move towards warm and comforting meals. Soups, stews and roasted vegetables can be both nutritious and budget-friendly.
For people living with TSC, food choices can sometimes be influenced by medication side effects, health needs or sensory challenges. Try to listen to your body and those of loved ones, and notice what foods make you feel energised and balanced. Staying hydrated is just as important in the cooler months as it is in summer, as sometimes we forget to drink enough water when it’s not hot outside.
If you find meal planning helpful, you could try cooking in batches and freezing portions, which can make busy days easier to manage. Involving family members in meal preparation can also turn cooking into a social activity, helping to reduce stress!
Stay active in a way that works for you
It can be tempting to stay indoors as the weather cools, but gentle activity can really help your wellbeing. Even something as simple as stretching at home or going for a stroll, moving your body in a way that suits you can help lift your mood and reduce stress. Even just a little bit of movement each day can make a difference. If seizures or mobility issues, or any other challenges are part of your TSC experience, focus on safe activities that feel achievable.
Slow down and reflect
Autumn is often seen as a season of reflection, a time to take stock before the rush of winter and the new year. Some people in the TSC community find that keeping a journal helps them slow down and make sense of their experiences.
You could write about the highs and lows of the week, note down questions for an upcoming appointment, or simply record the little victories that might otherwise be forgotten. Journaling doesn’t have to be long or complicated, as even a few sentences each day can help you process emotions and track patterns in your health and wellbeing.
This can also be a way of recognising your resilience. Living with TSC can mean facing daily challenges, but taking time to reflect can remind you of your strengths and achievements.
Be kind to yourself and others
It’s common for people to feel a little bit more tired, run down or stressed in the darker and colder days. Give yourself and others permission and understanding that this is sometimes ok. When things are particularly challenging, it might be useful to think about how your day has gone and if there were any triggers.
Above everything else, remember that the TSA and the TSA Support Line remain here for you.
