You walk through your neighborhood on a brisk fall morning, holding a steaming pumpkin spice latte as crispy leaves with hues of vermillion, amber, and saffron crunch beneath your Ugg-covered feet.
According to the Weather Channel, the autumn season began on September 22 and will conclude on December 21. It is a season of many things, from the changing of the leaves and its dazzling scenery to predictable temperatures and activities like football–all of which support its general appeal.
There are several psychological reasons that autumn is a comforting season for many. Sanam Hafeez, a PsyD and neuropsychologist, finds that one of these reasons is the timing of autumn, according to Very Well Mind.
“Once fall starts, most people resume their everyday routines, making it easier for friends to get together and socialize. There is a comfortable routine that this season brings,” Hafeez said.
Summer happens right before autumn and is mostly unstructured. The timing of autumn with going back to work and school helps keep people busy and organized.
The same article highlights the ideas of Ronit Levy, PsyD and director of Bucks County Anxiety Center. She finds that ideas of body image can influence the appeal of the autumn season.
“Fall usually means the end of swimsuit season,” Levy said. “People tend to feel more comfortable about their bodies and appearance in the fall because they’re wearing more bulkier clothing. There’s less body shame and pressure to diet to maintain a picture-perfect, beach-ready body.”
Additionally, the autumn season has fairly manageable temperatures. As Current Results stated, the average high temperature in Philadelphia this October was 67°F, and the average low temperature was 49°F.
The fact that temperatures mostly stayed in the 50s and 60s not only provides a soothing temperature for outside exercise, but various outfit options per day. On a 65°F day, you could wear shorts, a sweater, pants, a short-sleeved shirt, and several other possibilities.
A final factor contributing to autumn’s charm for many is football, a prominent sport that occurs during the high school, college, and professional seasons.
According to a study by Gallup News, football is the most popular sport in America, as 41% of the polled respondents picked it as their favorite sport to watch. Having something to look forward to watching every weekend keeps the anticipation of autumn on high throughout the year and also provides an opportunity for gathering with family and friends.
What’s your favorite part of fall: the weather, clothing, or sports? Let us know at [email protected]!
