Why Autumn Can Worsen Inflammation (and How to Stay Well This Season)

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, many people notice their joints aching more, old injuries flaring up, or general feelings of stiffness and fatigue. This isn’t your imagination, autumn can genuinely worsen inflammation in the body.

But why does this happen, and more importantly, what can you do about it? Let’s explore the science behind seasonal inflammation and practical ways you can reduce it, both naturally at home and with targeted therapies here at Wellness By Resolve.

The Science: Why Autumn Fuels Inflammation

1. Temperature & Atmospheric Pressure Changes

   • When temperatures drop and air pressure fluctuates, tissues in the body (especially around joints) expand and contract.

   • This can put pressure on nerves and increase pain sensitivity – which is why people with arthritis or old injuries often report flare-ups when the weather turns.

2. Reduced Sunlight & Vitamin D Deficiency

   • Shorter days mean less UVB exposure, which limits vitamin D production.

   • Vitamin D is crucial for immune balance and reducing systemic inflammation. Low levels are linked to autoimmune conditions, fatigue, and chronic pain.

3. Stress Hormones & Seasonal Transitions

   • Seasonal change can increase cortisol, the stress hormone. Elevated cortisol over time disrupts sleep, raises blood sugar, and promotes inflammation.

   • Research from the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism shows that chronic stress is a major trigger for inflammatory pathways.

4. Circadian Rhythm Disruption

   • With less daylight, melatonin production rises earlier, altering sleep–wake cycles.

   • Poor sleep quality itself is pro-inflammatory – studies link sleep deprivation to higher levels of CRP (C-reactive protein), a key inflammation marker.

     
     

How Our Therapies Help Reduce Autumn Inflammation

At Wellness By Resolve, we’ve curated evidence-based therapies that support the body’s natural ability to heal and balance inflammation:

• Infrared Sauna

  • Raises core temperature, mimicking the effects of moderate exercise.

  • Studies (e.g. JAMA Internal Medicine, 2015) show regular sauna use lowers inflammatory markers, improves circulation, and eases joint pain.

• Whole-Body Red Light Therapy (RLT)

  • Uses specific wavelengths (600–900nm) that penetrate tissue, stimulating mitochondria to produce more energy (ATP).

  • Research in Frontiers in Physiology highlights its ability to reduce oxidative stress and support collagen repair, directly helping inflammatory skin and joint conditions.

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

  • Delivers concentrated oxygen under pressure, flooding tissues with the fuel they need to repair.

  • Clinical studies show HBOT reduces inflammatory cytokines and speeds up recovery from chronic injuries and autoimmune-related inflammation.

• Cold Plunge

  • Cold exposure triggers a hormetic response – a “good stress” that reduces systemic inflammation over time.

  • Research in European Journal of Applied Physiology shows cold immersion reduces cortisol, supports better sleep, and improves resilience to stress.

    

    Cold Plunge is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory therapy.

    
    

Practical Tips for Managing Inflammation at Home

1. Prioritise Sleep Quality

   • Aim for 7–9 hours, keeping a consistent bedtime.

   • Use blackout curtains and reduce screen use before bed to help regulate melatonin.

2. Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

   • Focus on omega-3-rich foods (salmon, flaxseeds), leafy greens, berries, and turmeric.

   • Reduce processed foods and sugar, which drive inflammation.

3. Gentle Daily Movement

   • Low-impact exercise such as walking, yoga, or swimming helps keep joints lubricated and reduces stiffness.

   • Even 20 minutes per day can reduce CRP levels.

4. Stress Management

   • Try breathwork, meditation, or journaling to lower cortisol naturally.

   • Pair this with therapies like sauna or cold plunge for an even deeper reset.

     
     

Take Control of Autumn Wellness

Inflammation doesn’t have to hold you back this season. By combining simple lifestyle shifts with powerful wellness technologies, you can stay mobile, energised, and pain-free.

At Wellness By Resolve, we offer tailored sessions and protocols designed to reduce inflammation, support recovery, and boost overall resilience.

Book your session today - Click here to book

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