The transition to fall is usually glamorized by pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and back-to-school excitement, but what isn’t necessarily spoken about is the way we as moms can be impacted by these changes. Perhaps it’s the days getting shorter but routines remaining busy, the morning hustle feeling harder, or a generalized lack of motivation.
Burnout can sneak up on us, but can be something that we feel deep in our bones. It can cause feelings of being “stuck”, present as irritability towards our kids, and increase general overwhelm. The shorter daylight hours can bring a heaviness that isn’t just about the weather. It’s about energy, mood, and the endless list of responsibilities that don’t hibernate just because the sun does. Because so much of motherhood already happens in the background, the added weight of seasonal changes can feel invisible, even to ourselves.
Let’s talk about WHY this happens, because it’s multifaceted. When our bodies get less natural light, it can disrupt our sleep cycles and lower energy levels. The darker days can also magnify feelings of isolation or monotony. These shift deeply impacts our mental load; holidays, school schedules and family demands begin to pile up just as our energy dips.
Signs that you might be experiencing burnout include constant exhaustion even after rest, feeling resentful or detached from family routines, increased irritability or mood swings, and difficulty finding joy in activities that you normally find pleasure in.
The good news is that there are ways to intentionally offer yourself light, both literally and physically. Even on cold days, going for a quick walk outside can reset your energy. Building in mini-breaks, or permission to pause, can feel grounding like a hug. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea after school drop-off or 10 minutes of journaling before bed, it’s important to reconnect to ourselves. Remind yourself that not everything on your to-do list has to happen; say “no” where you can. Sharing how you’re feeling with others, whether a friend or in therapy, is an excellent way to lean on connection. You’re not meant to do this alone! Lastly, bringing in warmth – light a candle, make comfort food, or create small rituals that feel cozy can help to lighten the mood, especially at the end of a long day.
Most importantly, remember this: burnout isn’t a sign of weakness. It is a sign that you’ve been strong for too long without enough support. The darker months will pass, but your needs matter right now. As the days grow shorter, may you give yourself permission to rest, to let go of what’s not essential, and to lean into the warmth that is available – whether from the sun, your family, or yourself.