It’s time to introduce some autumn self care into your life.
Autumn or fall as some of you may say is a great time of change.
The wind is picking up, the nights are drawing in and the leaves are beginning to falling.
Autumn is always my favourite time of year.
I love the change in colours, the burnt orange, yellows and browns.
I enjoy getting back into a routine after the summer holidays. And I get giddy about what’s just around the corner…
Pumpkins, spice and all things nice, toffee apples and parkin, bonfires, fireworks, wooly hats and cosy fires!
I could go on and on!
But seriously, as the seasons change, it is the perfect opportunity to make some changes yourself.
Getting your mind, wellbeing and autumn self care routine in check!
So let’s get too it, here are some simple suggestions to improve your self care this Autumn.
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Seasonal journaling
If you are already familiar with journaling then you will know how beneficial it can be to your wellbeing.
However if taking the time to put pen to paper is a new concept to you then heres how you can introduce it to your autumn self care plan.
Journaling is a massively therapeutic activity! I recommend putting pen to paper as often as possible as part of your self care routine.
A lot of people journal daily. If thats too much then perhaps weekly is more for you?
Let’s get metaphorical here!
As the Autumn trees shed their leaves, so should you, clear your mind and renew.
I think some people think that journaling can be a bit too deep and serious. Or that they wouldn’t have a clue what to write.
It really doesn’t have to be complicated though. The key thing is to remember that it is a personal activity just for you.
There is no right or wrong way to do it.
Journaling can help you to mind dump, where you get everything out on paper. All your worries, anxieties and even tough times that you might have had recently.
The paper doesn’t judge, it just acts as a listening ear. It is the perfect Autumn self care activity, out with the old thoughts to make way for new, fresh ones.
As well as getting out all the negative mental energy onto paper, it is hugely important to also write down all the good stuff too!
Express your gratitude for all the amazing things that you have in your life.
List your hops and dreams and all the things that you are looking forward to over the season ahead.
Image courtesy of LavenderSageCo
Top journaling tips!
- Treat yourself to a journal you love! You are sharing your most intimate thoughts with it, so choose one you love ? I am in love with the Self Care Day Planner by LavenderSageCo on Etsy, I have included a cute pic above!
- You can’t beat writing with a nice pen! Who doesn’t love a bit of stationary right? It’s all about enjoying the experience.
- Try to make time each day to journal. If thats too much, as frequently as you can, making it something you can stick to.
- Use the experience to really clear your mind and get all the crap out!
- Don’t forget the good stuff! What are you truly grateful for? What are your goals? Dreams, hopes and aspirations?
Get your hygge groove on!
Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian expression used to describe the lifestyle of contentment.
Hygge is all about finding simple pleasures in life and enjoying cozy moments.
It is usually associated with the cold winter months, however the Autumn weather can be harsh, therefore I think a sprinkle of hygge to your Autumn self care is perfect!
As the Autumn season approaches it can be tough for some people. The dark nights start to draw in earlier and the dark mornings can cause low mood.
The drop in temperature and the harsh weather can have a significant impact on your mental wellbeing.
Also known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD there is some great information here, should you wish to know more.
Image courtesy of SweetLovePress
So how can you introduce hygge into your life?
- Embracing the cooler months and the change in season.
- Bringing cozy items into your home such as soft, warm throws, blankets and cushions like the gorgeous Home is where the hygge is cushion shown above by SweetLovePress on Etsy.
- Taking pleasure in being toasty indoors whilst watching the trees sway in the harsh autumnal winds.
- Spending time with family and friends.
- Enjoying candlelight.
- Sipping warm drinks.
- Curling up with a book.
- Getting out your hats, scarves and gloves.
- Decorate your home with fairy lights.
Autumn Nature Walks
Here at Gardening Love I’m all about the power of nature!
To me being in nature is key to health, wellbeing and happiness.
There is no greater eco therapy experience then a walk on an Autumn day.
Get out your boots, get your cosy scarf on and head outdoors.
The colours in Autumn are just awesome! If the sun is out, your in for a treat.
Take the opportunity to practice mindfulness on your walk. Listen to the wind, watch the leaves as they fall, walk through the rustling leaves, look at the colours and spot all the wonderful things Mother Nature has to offer.
A true feast for the senses!
A few more Autumn self care ideas for you to try
- Nature trail with the children
- Light some scented candles
- Enjoy a warm bubble bath
- Put on your cosy slippers
- Wear soft socks
- Enjoy a hot chocolate
- Collect wood for your bonfire
- Bake parkin
- Make toffee apples
- Go pumpkin picking
- Read a book
- Treat yourself to cosy pyjamas
- Add some Autumn decor to your home
- Try some new soup recipes
- knit
- Drink spiced cider
- Watch the sunset
- Bake flapjack
- Make Halloween costumes
- Carve pumpkins
- Invest in a fire pit
- Collect acorns
- Go Conker picking
- Stargaze on a clear night
- Sit outdoors with a blanket
Stay tuned for more seasonal posts.
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Tag me on social media Gardeningloveuk to show me your autumn self care activities!
Take care and enjoy the autumn season ahead.
Becky
