Are you ready to embrace a new beginning and create a fall you’ll love? After a year and a half of the pandemic and a record summer with several 120+ degree days in the desert where I live, let’s just say I’m more than ready.
No matter where you live, this is the perfect time to incorporate the best of fall into a self-care routine designed to help you slow down and enjoy the best of this brief but beautiful season.
Feel free to incorporate my ideas and add your own to the mix. Create a wish list to ensure you enjoy this new season, and be sure to schedule them on your calendar.
So let’s start with some ways you can practice self-care this fall.
Get into the right state of mind
As we experience the shift from summer to fall, let’s be intentional and begin by frequently repeating these fall-inspired affirmations:
During this fall season, no matter what is going on in my life, I give myself permission to take some time to take care of myself. As I breathe in the crisp fall air, I will allow stress and anxiety to melt away like autumn leaves. I will feel calm, relaxed, at peace and fill each day with joy. I will learn to slow down and be in the moment, enjoying all that this exquisite season has to offer.
Okay, now that we’re in the right frame of mind, let’s have some fun and relax!
Have a fall fling
With the last remaining warm temperatures of the day, changing leaf colors, and crisp fall air, it’s a great time to hop in the car for a road trip. Maybe even book a weekend getaway in the woods.
Maybe include a hayride or apple picking. Bring your grandchildren for more fun. Or visit a pumpkin patch and pick one to bake a pumpkin pie and roast pumpkin seeds.
If a weekend trip isn’t feasible, simply get outside during the day. Put on your jeans and a comfy sweater and take a nature walk, visit a local national park, or take a bike ride to take in all those fall colors. Bring on a fall-inspired homemade trail mix with pumpkin seeds, cranberry raisins, and Reese’s pieces.
Relive your childhood and collect a giant pile of leaves and dive in with the grandkids. If you’re a football fan, throw a tailgate party. Or take a walk on the chilly beach during the off-season when you can enjoy the ocean without the crowds.
Looking for some romance? Pack a fall picnic with a simple cheese board featuring crackers, fruit, chutneys, and assorted cheeses. Add a fun thermos filled with hot lentil and ham soup. Don’t forget to drink apple cider, pumpkin ale, or Oktoberfest beers. Spread out a cozy favorite quilt in the crisp leaves and bask in all the glory of fall. In the evening, take time to relax around a campfire or campfire with a cozy blanket and someone special to watch the flames.
Whatever you choose, be sure to take plenty of photos of all the bright and vibrant colors to capture some of that beauty and create wonderful memories for the future.
pamper yourself
Since fall often means busier days with more structure and routine than summer, make sure you start your morning off right. Whip up a nutritious breakfast with fall-inspired oatmeal topped with walnuts, a dash of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice. Go for an early morning walk or jog in the fresh air. Be sure to spend a few extra moments drinking your coffee, enjoying the warm sunlight through the kitchen window.
Ready to unwind at the end of the day? Fall grooming is all about getting warm and cozy. Sit by the fire in cozy fleece pajamas under a fluffy blanket and sip your favorite tea. Immerse yourself in a hot tub filled with spicy essential oils and a lit fall-scented candle for relaxing aromatherapy. Cook up some healthy comfort foods, like casseroles or crockpot creations, or roast healthy vegetables. Or bake a delicious apple or pumpkin pie to celebrate the season.
Spa days are relaxing any time of year. Since cold weather can dry out your skin, why not try a facial with some seasonal fragrances?
Here’s one I found on the internet that sounds good:
Mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 teaspoon of nutmeg.
Stir the ingredients to make a paste.
Apply the mixture to your face, sit back, close your eyes and relax for 30 minutes.
Wash off the mixture by rubbing gently and with lukewarm water in circular motions.
And while you’re at it, why not splurge and get a manicure and pedicure in fun new fall colors?
Try a fall-friendly hobby
Science has shown that hobbies can mitigate the negative effects of stress, making them a great addition to your fall self-care routine.
On those cold, rainy days, you might want to try a fall-related craft, like leaf pressing, candle making, or fantasy football. Of course, this is the perfect time to learn photography or improve your skills.
Start knitting and create special sweaters, scarves and hats for your loved ones or a perfect knitted blanket to snuggle up with. Or how about quilting a family heirloom for your children or grandchildren?
If you’re crafty, create a fall centerpiece for your table or decorate your mantelpiece with pumpkins, fall foliage, pinecones, acorns, and fall candles. If you’re on a budget, these items can often be found at the dollar store.
So those are my tips. So, get out there and have a great fall!
