Pumpkin Spice SZN - The Science Behind Our Love of Fall
Autumn has arrived in Upstate, NY—and the world is shifting into “pumpkin spice” mode. Fall has a unique way of capturing our hearts, but have you ever wondered why? Indeed, it’s cozy, beautiful and nostalgic, but there’s something deeper happening behind the scenes, rooted in our biology. From oxytocin to dopamine, the season is full of physiological responses that make some of us love fall just a little more than the rest of the year. Let’s explore why fall smells, colors, tastes and traditions feels so comforting and what’s going on in your brain when you embrace your inner “spice queen.”
Oxytocin and Seasonal Rituals: Bonding Through Fall Traditions
One of the key reasons we find fall so comforting is the hormone oxytocin. Often referred to as the "bonding hormone," oxytocin is responsible for creating a sense of connection, trust, and closeness with others. Fall is full of rituals—gathering around bonfires, apple picking, attending fall festivals, and sharing seasonal drinks with friends. These activities foster a sense of community and belonging, releasing oxytocin in the process.
The act of engaging in these cozy rituals also ties into self-care, something that many people prioritize as the days grow shorter and the air becomes chillier. Whether you’re curling up with a blanket and tea or venturing out for a day of pumpkin picking, these moments release oxytocin, contributing to the warm, fuzzy feelings we associate with autumn.
Comfort Food and Dopamine: The Joy of Fall Flavors
Another major player in our love of fall is dopamine—the neurotransmitter responsible for the brain’s reward system. The season brings with it an abundance of treats: pumpkin spice lattes, warm apple cider, cinnamon donuts, and all the warming flavors we associate with fall. When you indulge in these foods, dopamine is released, creating feelings of pleasure and satisfaction.
It’s no wonder people look forward to these flavors each year—the anticipation and consumption of fall treats tap into the brain's pleasure centers. That pumpkin spice latte isn’t just a drink; it’s a reward, a little burst of happiness as the cooler months roll in.
Cooler Temperatures and Serotonin: The Calming Effect of Autumn
As the heat of summer gives over to the coolness of autumn, our body’s levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, begin to shift as well. The change in temperature has a calming effect, slowing down the frenetic energy of summer and ushering in a more grounded, reflective mood. In Eastern medical terms, you could think of this as part of the shift from Yang to Yin. (if you’d like to learn more about the transition from Summer to Fall through a CCM lens, read further here!)
Serotonin plays a crucial role in this transition. It helps stabilize mood and can contribute to a sense of contentment and well-being as the days grow shorter. Autumn is a time when people feel more introspective, more present in the moment, and more inclined to enjoy mindful activities—whether it’s taking a peaceful walk through the woods or simply savoring a hot drink on a chilly morning.
The Power of Scent and Memory: Nostalgia in a Cup
There’s something about the smell of fall—whether it’s a whiff of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves—that just brings us home. These scents are deeply tied to memory through our olfactory system, which is directly linked to the limbic system, the part of the brain that governs emotions and memories.
For many, the familiar smells of fall evoke memories of past seasons, family gatherings, and childhood traditions. This nostalgia is powerful, providing a sense of comfort and continuity in an otherwise ever-changing world. That’s why, when you take that first sip of a pumpkin spice latte or smell freshly baked pie, it’s more than just flavor—it’s a trigger for feelings of warmth, safety, and home.
Group Identity and the "Basic" Phenomenon: Social Bonds Through Trends
While fall’s appeal may be personal, there’s also a cultural aspect to the phenomenon. In recent years, loving fall has become something of a stereotype, tied to the playful “basic” trend. Be it pumpkin spice lattes, plaid scarves, or fall selfies, participating in these activities can create a sense of group identity. For good reason, that social connection feels good. It’s a core part of being human.
When we engage in shared cultural trends, endorphins—another feel-good chemical—are often released, especially when we share these experiences with others. This sense of inclusion and bonding, even if it’s lighthearted and “basic,” strengthens our feelings of community. Posting about fall on social media or embracing the trend with friends can actually make you feel closer to others, releasing both oxytocin and endorphins in the process.
Seasonal Transitions and Mental Health: Fall as a Protective Factor
The shift from summer to fall can be a mentally rejuvenating time, a moment to reflect before the dark, colder, more isolating “yin” months of winter set in. While winter might bring seasonal affective disorder (SAD) for some, fall often serves as a transitional buffer, allowing for one last burst of outdoor activity and social gathering.
Engaging in fall traditions, from sipping cider to cozying up indoors, may help prepare the mind and body for the challenges of winter. The release of serotonin and oxytocin during this season may serve as a protective factor, keeping people mentally grounded and emotionally connected before the onset of winter blues.
Fall Isn’t Just a Trend, It’s a Biological Reset
Our love of fall runs deeper than just trends and Instagram posts. It’s a season that speaks to our biology and our need for connection, warmth, and community. From the hormone-releasing rituals to the feel-good flavors and scents, fall helps us slow down and bond with others, preparing us for the quieter months ahead.
So don’t judge yourself—embrace your inner fall lover. Whether you’re a “pumpkin spice queen” or just someone who appreciates a good sweater, know that your love of autumn is deeply rooted in both science and the simple joys of seasonal living.
