STAY UPBEAT IN AUTUMN

As summer nights become a distant memory, general tiredness and sniffles can gather on the horizon like autumn leaves.

Nurse consultant Dr Phil Cooper (pictured wrapped up and ready for autumn!) shares his seasonal thoughts on raising spirits and energy levels…and appreciating the little things.

Dr Phil Cooper

BANISH AUTUMN TIREDNESS

“You may feel tired and sluggish with the change in season. Less sunlight and the clocks going back can disrupt our sleep and waking cycles. Try to get outdoors as much as possible to top up on vitamin D and make the most of crisp, bright autumn days.”

HAVE A HEARTY BREAKFAST AND HIT YOUR FIVE-A-DAY

“Porridge is the perfect breakfast. It’s starchy and full of fibre. We’re all tempted to fill up on comfort food as cooler days arrive – try to include a juicy clementine or satsuma each day.”

KEEP MOVING

Encourage the whole family to try out a new activity, or go kicking up leaves in your local park.”

FOCUS ON THE LITTLE THINGS

“For me it’s taking in the smell of freshly baked bread in my local shop, singing along to the radio when I’m driving, or having a good soak in the bath…and saying thank you to someone for doing something for me. Set goals and do things you love.”

BRIGHT IDEAS

35 things to do in autumn: dayoutwiththekids.co.uk

Find places to go: countryfile.comTake an autumn break: visitengland.com