Appreciating the ephemeral joys of the different seasons is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and celebrating seasonal novelty can help improve your mood and overall well-being.
Changing colors and temperatures in nature can promote feelings of awe and peace, but with change can also come distress. Increasing darkness and cold temperatures may be difficult to tolerate.
And while the holidays can be an exciting time for some, they may also bring stress and overwhelm. However, this is all the more reason to embrace the change, remind yourself that it’s temporary, and find joy and gratitude in the present moment. For example, as the days get shorter, it can be helpful to practice gratitude for the sun, by noticing the feeling of its warm rays on your face in the morning light.
Fall is a beautiful season that offers unique opportunities for self-care activities that can have a positive impact on mental health. It’s important to lean into self-compassion and relaxation through the ups and downs of the changing seasons.
Lean in to these practices to maximize your Autumn season mental wellness!
Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks in the crisp, autumn air. The changing leaves and the sound of crunching leaves beneath your feet can be incredibly calming and rejuvenating.
Pumpkin Carving: Get creative by carving pumpkins. It's a fun and artistic way to express yourself and enjoy the Halloween spirit.
Cozy Reading: Find a comfortable nook with a blanket, a warm beverage, and a good book. Fall is the perfect time to lose yourself in a captivating story.
Baking: Experiment with fall recipes. Baking pumpkin pies, apple crisps, or gingerbread cookies can be therapeutic and make your home smell amazing.
Fall Decor: Decorate your living space with fall-themed decor. Decorating can be a creative and fulfilling activity that also makes your surroundings more inviting.
Yoga and Meditation: As the days get shorter and cooler, consider indoor yoga or meditation. These practices can help you stay grounded and maintain a sense of calm.
Photography: Capture the beauty of fall with your camera. Exploring nature and capturing the changing colors can be a fulfilling and creative pursuit.
Warm Baths: Draw a bath with Epsom salts and your favorite essential oils. Soaking in a warm bath can relax your body and mind, and it's perfect for chilly evenings.
Seasonal Crafting: Engage in crafts like making wreaths, painting, or knitting. Crafting can be a wonderful way to express yourself and create something beautiful.
Hygge Practices: Embrace the Danish concept of hygge, which emphasizes coziness and comfort. Light candles, use soft blankets, and enjoy hot beverages to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Foliage Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of fall foliage, fruits, and wildlife to spot in your area. Going on a scavenger hunt can be a fun way to explore your environment.
Journaling: Reflect on your thoughts and feelings as the year winds down. Journaling can help you process your emotions and set goals for the coming year.
Volunteer Work: Fall is a time of gratitude and giving. Consider volunteering at a local food bank, animal shelter, or other charitable organization.
Fall Aromatherapy: Use essential oils like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg in a diffuser to create a warm and comforting atmosphere in your home.
Forest Bathing: Spend time in nature, inhaling the fresh, crisp air, and enjoying the fall colors. The Japanese practice of "shinrin-yoku" or forest bathing is known for its therapeutic benefits.
Remember that self-care is a personal journey, and it's essential to choose activities that resonate with you and make you feel good. Fall offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and yourself, and these activities can help you make the most of this beautiful season.
Happy Autum!
Natalie Pascale, MA, LPCC
Schedule a free phone consultation with Natalie today!