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.

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.’

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.

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.

‘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

I tried this super easy walking technique — it didn’t just increase my step count

The 7 health signs that prove you’re officially getting older

This is how many times you should pee in a day, according to your age

Why you get nighttime leg cramps — and when it could be serious

7 surprising signs that show you’re pretty healthy, actually

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