As winter approaches, the days grow shorter, air grows colder, and the natural world begins to slow down.
Both humans and animals respond to the shrinking daylight, adjusting behaviours, energy levels, and rhythms.
But the seasonal quieting of late fall isn’t just about biology – it’s about how we experience the transition inward.
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The reason for the seasons
Earth’s tilt changes the angle and duration of sunlight we receive. As our hemisphere leans away from the sun, less direct sunlight reaches us, leading to shorter days, longer nights, and cooler weather.
This decreasing amount of daylight affects our circadian rhythm – our internal body clock – influencing mood, alertness, sleep quality, and stress levels.
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Nature’s response
Nature listens closely to daylight.
Birds use light cues to prepare for migration. The V-shaped flocks of geese, warblers vanishing from backyards, and raptors following thermal movements all travel in response to the fading daylight hours.
It signals mammals to start preparing for the winter ahead. Squirrels stash away their acorns, and bears fatten up for hibernation.
Deer rutting season – and consequently, the movement of bucks searching for does – is triggered by shortening days.
Insects respond dramatically to the lack of light. Monarch butterflies begin their impressive migration to Mexico across our Great Lakes, while other insects, like beetles and bees, enter a dormant state called diapause.
Plants join as well. Photosynthesis slows, leaves break down, and trees prepare for dormancy, conserving their energy until spring returns.
The natural world does not resist the quieting – it leans into it.
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What about us?
Humans are no different. We notice energy and mood shifts once autumn arrives.
Some feel the warmth of red and orange hues with a sense of calm, while others struggle to find energy for activities as the world slows.
Which makes sense! The decrease in sunlight can affect your serotonin (the feel-good chemical) and melatonin (the sleepy hormone) levels.
Keeping them on track is important for getting a good night’s sleep and maintaining a balanced mood.
It can be difficult to find equilibrium in the quieting season, but it’s not impossible.
One of the best ways is to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle and expose yourself to natural light when it’s here, especially first thing in the morning!
This could be as simple as enjoying your morning coffee or tea on the porch or next to a window. You can even bring the season indoors with bright light therapy.
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Practice self-care
The fading daylight of fall is not an ending, it’s an invitation to shift. Just as wildlife slows, we too can slow down.
Be present in the moment, journal, and pay attention to the changes around you.
Lean into the quiet by cozying up with candles, soft blankets, and seasonal foods that mirror the warmth and shelter wildlife experiences.
Connect with each other. Animals thrive in community and so do we. Participate in local festivals, share meals, and find others to enjoy the quiet with you.
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Visit us!
Spend some quality time at one of our provincial parks and enjoy the gorgeous fall colours and the calm, crisp air.
You can catch the second peak of fall colours at Algonquin Provincial Park or squeeze in one last visit to some of these parks that are open late into the season.
While you’re there, listen to the crunch of leaves under your feet, breathe in the earthy scent of late fall, and enjoy the quiet of the late season.
Or bundle up in warm clothes by a campfire and spend the night camping and cooking cozy meals.
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Rediscover the beauty in stillness. We promise that even the darkest days hold a gentle glow.
