Fall Self-Care Ideas
To say I’m excited for fall is an understatement. To me, fall not only means candles, sweaters, blankets, spooky movies, beautiful changing leaves, and football season, but it also means finally retiring my dreaded summer shorts! There’s no greater season than one that openly accepts sweatpants and a sweatshirt as a daily outfit. While I could go on and on about all the reasons I love fall, there’s still the inevitable decrease in that summer sunlight that is so great for our mental health and mood. The nights start to come quicker and the mornings begin to last a little longer. Daily self-care is always essential, but making sure our self-care is top-notch is a priority for this fall! Check out the list below of some fall-themed self-care ideas:
Go on a nature walk or hike
There’s no better time to pack a lunch, lace up your hiking shoes, grab your water bottle, and hit the trails. Hiking in the fall is an absolute game-changer! Eliminate all distractions (this includes your phone- but still keep it on you for emergencies!) and fully immerse yourself in the beauty, peace, and calm of the nature around you. Ask around for recommendations for parks and trails to visit in the fall. I recommend any that have higher elevation to give you a better view of the trees. The key here is to be mindful. Go on a day where you can carve out a few hours to enjoy nature and not have to rush back for anything. Don’t turn on any music, but instead allow yourself to be in the present moment as you experience all the sights, sounds, and smells.
Read outside
Put on your coziest socks and sweatshirt, grab your favorite blanket, brew your favorite hot drink, and sit outside while you read a good book. Don’t have a book you’re excited to read? Check out your local library and pick up a few that interest you. While reading, turn off your phone, eliminate distractions, and allow yourself to fully relax and enjoy!
Indulge in your favorite fall drink
Take a little extra time in the morning to drink your pumpkin-spiced coffee and plan for the day. For a pick-me-up during the workday, take a little break to brew a calming (or caffeinated- if it’s one of those days!) tea and focus on taking deep breaths and relaxing any tension in your body. In the evening, curl up on the couch with a big mug of hot apple cider. Be mindful of the warmth of the cup in your hands, the aroma of the flavors, and the sensation of the warmth in your mouth and throat as you take a sip. This also calls for a special trip to the grocery store to stock up on your favorite seasonal drinks, flavorings, and spices!
Light some candles and take a bath
Morning, afternoon, or night- there’s no better time to light some fall scented candles (pumpkin apple is my absolute fav) and take a relaxing bath. Dim the lights and add some spa or relaxing music to really add to the effect! I also encourage pouring some Epsom Salt in the water and finish the experience off with some good smelling lotion. Gosh, I feel like I’m melting just writing this!
Take a nap- guilt free!
We need to retire the idea that napping is lazy. Instead, lets vow to actually listen to our bodies and what they’re telling us we need. When you’re tired, I encourage you to take a cat nap, whether it be 20 minutes or an hour. Our bodies need rest, and rest is an essential part of self-care. Not only does it boost our energy, but it helps battle depression and keeps our immune system strong.
Cozy up your space
For me, this means a plethora of warm, fuzzy blankets to choose from, lighted scented candles, soft throw pillows, fresh fall-colored flowers, and my favorite seasonal decorations. Create a space in your house, whether it be your office, bedroom, or living room, where you feel peaceful, relaxed, and happy. Try to make this your stress-free zone. Trip to TJ Maxx anyone?
Create your monthly goals and get organized
Grab a notebook and your favorite pen and jot down a list of goals you have for yourself this month and your steps to achieving them. Make sure your goals are attainable and not too big! In addition, organize and fill-in your monthly calendar and to-do list. Swap out your summer clothes for your fall clothes and explore new ways that can help you stay organized through this chaos we call life!