Falling Back, Moving Forward: How to Stay Bright When the Days Get Darker

A note from Aly + the FIT30A crew

Hey friend,

It happened again.That weird week where 6:00 p.m. feels like midnight and the sunset sneaks in before dinner’s even on the stove. Daylight savings ended, and just like that, everything feels a little… off.

If you're anything like us, you might be feeling it in more ways than one. A little foggier in the mornings. A little less motivated after work. Maybe even craving sleep, sugar, or silence all at once. It’s not in your head. It’s biology. And it’s really common.

When the days get shorter, our bodies produce more melatonin (hi, sleepiness) and less serotonin (bye, good mood). According to the National Institute of Mental Health, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) impacts millions of people each year, and even if you don’t have a clinical diagnosis, that fall funk can hit just as hard.

So we wanted to check in. Not with pressure. With purpose.

FIT30A has always been about moving differently: less about the hustle, more about the heart. These seasonal shifts can feel disorienting, but they can also be invitations; to slow down, move with intention, and reconnect with the things that make you feel steady when the rest of the world gets dark early.

We’re leaning into that mindset this month, and we hope you will too.

Here's what's helping us feel better lately:

Getting outside first thing in the morning. Even just 10 minutes of sunlight helps regulate your internal clock and keep your mood in check.

Staying active, even when we don’t feel like it. Movement changes your chemistry in real time, your body literally starts producing more serotonin and dopamine with just 20–30 minutes of exercise. That’s not fluff. That’s science.

Keeping our routines. Even the small ones. Same wake-up time. Same stretch. Same playlist while we wash dishes.

And the biggest one? Community. Which brings us to something special…

On November 15th, we’re hosting something a little different.

In partnership with HFAS (Human First, Athlete Second), we’re bringing a purpose-driven workout to Beacon 331 Apartments; and this one’s not about ticket sales or fancy gear. It’s about showing up, moving with intention, and being reminded that you are more than your hustle.

This class is about showing up for yourself in a new way. It’s about remembering that who you are isn’t based on how fast you move or how perfect your form is, but how grounded you feel in your own skin. This event is completely free and open to anyone who wants to reconnect with purpose, community, and clarity. There’ll be a live DJ from Full Circle Ent., the Kingdom Coffee truck on-site, and a workout led by both HFAS leaders and me, Aly Gray! You’ll still need to reserve your spot so we know you’re coming, but donations are completely optional and can be made through a QR code at the event or right now at donorbox.org/human-first-athlete-second.

Every dollar raised supports Destiny Worship Center, but what we’re really building here is something that doesn’t cost a thing: real connection, movement with meaning, and a reminder that you don’t have to do it all to feel whole.

It’s not a class for perfect people. It’s a class for real ones. Just like you.

Save Your Spot Here before we fill up!

Let This Be the Season You Choose to Stay

November is full of moments to remember what really matters: quiet mornings, warm food, shared space, and people who make you feel like you can take a deep breath and be exactly who you are.

And that’s what we want for you. Less pressure. More peace. A rhythm that actually works with your life…even when it gets dark at 5:00 p.m.

If you need a nudge to move your body, we’ve got you. If you need a reset, you’re not alone. And if you need a place to land this month, we’re here. Always.

Come join us. Bring a friend. Bring your messy day. We’ll be waiting with open arms and maybe a playlist that makes you forget how early it gets dark now.

With so much love,

Aly & The FIT30A Team