The two-minute task to ‘September reset’ without doing much at all

An easy way to reset for autumn (Picture: Getty Images) While January gets all the credit, September is actually when we’re all in the mood for a fresh start. In fact, new research from Boots reveals that 44% of Brits think this month is the ideal time to restart healthy habits. But go on TikTok, and the ‘September reset’ content can be a little overwhelming. There’s the influencers that recommend the 75 Soft challenge, with its daily workouts and eating clean, and those that film themselves deep cleaning their entire homes. But if you want to refresh your mind and body — without embarking on a gruelling productivity marathon — there’s a much simpler way forward. Metro spoke to GP Dr Suzanne Wylie, who recommended a simple but effective technique to help you reset this September — and it takes just two minutes, literally. It’s worth giving it a go, even as the weather gets colder (Picture: Getty Images) The two minute ‘September reset’ task to add to your routine Dr Suzanne tells Metro that a ‘simpler’ September reset is all about making a ‘small, consistent’ change. She reccomends adding this easy task to your morning routine: ‘Get up, step outside for two minutes, allow yourself some daylight when available,’ she says. ‘Notice your surroundings and give yourself a moment before the day becomes busy.’ Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. Yep, that’s literally it. You don’t have start pulling some yoga stretches or jogging on the spot. Literally just stand there. ‘You do not have to exercise, meditate or go for a brisk walk,’ she adds. ‘Just stand outside with your first cup of tea or coffee and take a few slow breaths while looking at the sky or the street around you.’ The key, according to Dr Wylie, isn’t intensity but commitment: ‘It does not need to involve exercise or a long walk. ‘The important factor is that it is realistic enough to repeat consistently.’ Why is it good for you? ‘At this time of year, we still have morning light, which is is one of the strongest signals we give the body clock about when the day has started,’ says Dr Suzanne. ‘September is a useful opportunity to re-establish a strong distinction between night and day. ‘Natural light gives the brain a clear signal that the day has started, and regular exposure to daylight can help reinforce a consistent sleep-wake pattern,’ she explains. Natural light is beneficial for our physical and mental health (Picture: Getty Images) And even when your mornings become dark, while there will be no natural daylight to help regulate your body clock, this is still a good habit. ‘There is still value in stepping outside, because a change of environment, cooler air, quiet surroundings and the opportunity to pause can have a calming effect, Dr Suzanne adds. The GP, for iQ Doctor, also says it’s a good mental health practice. ‘There is a psychological benefit to creating a deliberate transition between being asleep and starting the day, rather than immediately reaching for a phone, checking emails or moving into the demands of work and family life. ‘It is a modest intervention, but these kinds of manageable routines can be helpful for supporting sleep patterns, morning alertness and general wellbeing.’ It’s worth noting that small habits like this, while important, aren’t a subsitute for medical care. Deals of the Day The viral LED face mask with over 350 lights that's currently discounted by £100 A friend said I looked 'snatched' – I credit this new Charlotte Tilbury powder Shop MySweetSmile's biggest Bank Holiday offers before they end Back-to-school shopping just got a lot cheaper thanks to Primark The back-to-school essential parents forget every year – and it could cost them ‘Persistent low mood, significant anxiety, ongoing fatigue or a recurring seasonal deterioration in mental health should be discussed with a GP rather than attributed simply to a change in season,’ adds Dr Suzanne. More health advice from Metro Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@metro.co.uk Arrow MORE: The age Brits finally feel in control of their lives — and the signs you’ve reached it Arrow MORE: My insomnia was debilitating – until a sleep clinic changed everything Arrow MORE: The orgasm technique used unknowingly by women to intensify their climax The Slice Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.