Recently, I had the pleasure of spending time with the incredible team at Vi-Leon for a fall lunch-and-learn focused on a topic many of us know all too well: how not to spiral when the sun sets at 4pm.
As the seasons shift, especially in the fall and early winter, our energy, mood, and nervous systems are often impacted in ways we don’t always anticipate. Shorter days, colder weather, and packed schedules can quietly increase stress and reactivity, particularly in high-pressure work environments.
During our time together, we explored seasonal mindset shifts, practical stress management tools, and simple ways to stay grounded when external conditions feel heavy or overwhelming. One of the highlights was creating a “Fall Energy Menu,” a more flexible, realistic approach to supporting energy and regulation during this time of year. It included some outside-the-box ideas, a little humor, and permission to meet ourselves where we actually are, not where we think we should be.
What stood out most was the team’s willingness to engage honestly, ask thoughtful questions, and lean into strategies that support sustainability rather than burnout. These conversations matter, especially in environments where demands are high and care for others is central to the work.
A special thank you to Abigail Campion for organizing such a fun and thoughtful lunch-and-learn, and to the entire Vi-Leon team for showing up with openness and curiosity. It was truly a joy to spend time with you.
Seasonal changes don’t require us to push harder. Often, they invite us to slow down, adjust expectations, and support ourselves differently. I’m grateful to work with teams who are willing to have those conversations and build cultures that value regulation, compassion, and long-term wellbeing.