Fall: The Inevitability of Change

The fall season has begun in the Northern Hemisphere, making it a great time to embrace new opportunities for transformation. Perhaps I believe this because I was born on Hobbit Day (September 22nd), a contemporary unofficial holiday that celebrates the birthdays of two beloved hobbits, Bilbo and Frodo Baggins.

In J.R.R. Tolkien's book, "The Hobbit: There and Back Again," the story opens with Gandalf, a wizard, making an unexpected visit to the home of Bilbo. Gandalf encourages Bilbo to leave behind the comforts of home to embark on an adventure with him and a lively cast of dwarves to help them take back their home beneath a mountain. At first, Bilbo refuses because of fear. However, upon seeing the group move on, he comes to realize his home is no longer a place of rest; it is empty of meaning. He is ambivalent and unsettled and then courageously changes his mind, faces his fear, and embarks on the adventure. This journey changes the trajectory of his life, and he heroically helps and supports the others along the way.

As in this epic story of transformation and growth, myths help us to understand and make sense of the inevitability of change in our own lives.

For example, Autumn brings a shift in rhythms, marked by shorter days, cooler temperatures, and the beauty of changing leaves. It's an excellent opportunity to pause and reflect on what you'd need to attend to and cultivate. Embrace the change as an opportunity for personal growth and nurture your well-being. Take a moment to set a meaningful intention for the fall, dedicating time to care for yourself and those around you.

As a healthcare professional specializing in adults, couples, and adult family relationships, the fall season presents opportunities for individuals seeking support during this time of transition. It's a period when I open the practice more to welcome those who need and are looking to enhance their well-being and manage stress. Through therapeutic sessions, we foster strength and connection and develop inner support for individuals and couples looking to navigate change in their lives. 

The fall is a perfect time to take inventory and reflect on what is working in our lives. I encourage my clients to identify activities that help them feel grounded. We practice these activities to boost our mood and find a balance, so we can continue to focus on what is uniquely important work that needs to be continued or accomplished. The sessions include meaningful conversations, listening, and building a strong therapeutic relationship. Together, we develop coping skills that improve self-esteem and support clients in connecting more deeply with themselves and their values. These skills include setting healthy, stable boundaries and using therapeutic techniques to handle change with acceptance and authenticity. We also tackle uncertainty in a thoughtful manner that encourages growth rather than defensiveness. 

As we transition into fall, I encourage you to focus on your personal growth and self-care. If you're interested in exploring this journey, please feel free to reach out for a free phone consultation. I tailor each session to meet the unique needs of my clients, ensuring that the process is manageable as we work toward your desired outcomes.

Art Image:

Will Barnet (1911-2012). (1967). The Silent Seasons - Fall [Oil, graphite pencil, and crayon on canvas]. Whitney Museum of American Art/New York, NY/USA; Purchase, with funds from Mr. and Mrs. Daniel H. Silberberg. https://jstor.org/stable/community.36519947