Unlike the highly unpredictable weather of summer, the autumn season typically fluctuates between a more accurate mild and dry, or windy and wet forecast. As nature transitions, it strips the scenery of lush greenery and abundance of colourful flowers, and the mesmerising early morning birdsong becomes inaudible.
It’s beneficial to devote more time to self-care as humidity levels drop with the change of the seasons, especially if you’re stricken with seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
To enhance your wellbeing this autumn, it’s a good idea to develop seasonal rituals…
Autumn Self-Care Rituals
It’s essential to nourish your mind, body and soul every season. In the autumn you can…
Revitalise your mental energy by:
- Practicing mindful breathing
- Connecting with the autumn vibe of nature
- Creating a spa experience at home
Engage in physical activity to help you maintain focus whilst also developing self-awareness. Try:
- Learning a new skill, like meditation or yoga
- Taking a mindful walk, or go apple picking
- Jumping in or rolling about in a huge pile of crunchy leaves!
Maintain positive emotions by:
- Expressing your thoughts in a journal – let the wonderful colours of autumn inspire you
- Practicing mindful relaxation techniques
- Using affirmations to build self-confidence
Minimise seasonal stress by spending some quality time with loved ones:
- Enjoy binge watching your favourite TV shows and movies together
- Get youngsters involved in craft projects
- Express your creativity through baking with your children
Autumnal Exercise Ideas
Just because the air is now cooler, it doesn’t mean that you should forget about exercising outdoors. Your fitness can still benefit from seasonal elements if you change up your routine. Wrap up in warmer clothing and take a daily walk in the crisp, fresh air. Fill your lungs with cool air, and find clarity and inner peace amongst the beautiful colours, textures and aromas of an autumn day in nature.
If you prefer to cycle for the recommended 30 minutes of exercise that is effective against depression, make sure that you pack rainproof clothing. If you’re a regular rider you’ll be able to witness the dramatic seasonal colour change of leaves, from green to gold, as you navigate your favourite cycle route.
Restorative yoga is an excellent form of exercise to enjoy in an indoor sanctuary on a cold, rainy day. Join a class, or practice the asanas that are held for longer than in conventional yoga, in the comfort of your cosy home. The slow and gentle pace encourages physical, mental and emotional relaxation.
Embracing Autumn Via The Senses
For many people, the best thing about autumn is the delicious comfort food. Tucking into a bowl of steaming hot soup or a hearty stew, as wind and rain lashes against the window pane is deeply satisfying. Treat yourself to body warming comforting foods and the seasonal flavours of apples, parsnips, squash and pumpkins. Fuel your body with root vegetables, whole grains and legumes, and plenty of health boosting green veggies, like broccoli and kale. Add herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme and ginger, turmeric and cinnamon for an authentic autumn flavour.
Fill your home with the gorgeous fragrance of autumn, by choosing essential oils and scented candles that are aromatically smoky, sweet and spicy. Cardamom, cinnamon bark, cedarwood, cypress, clove and juniper are perfect for promoting a healthy immune response.
Decorating your space with the awesome colours of autumn can have an uplifting impact on your senses. You don’t have to splash out on new seasonal décor or accessories. Collect a bunch of fallen leaves and conkers, and display them in a large bowl to instantly add autumnal vibrancy to the living room.
Develop your intuition with meditation and mindfulness practice. Try out divination tools, like a pendulum, runes, tarot and oracle cards, crystals or a scrying bowl to tap into your sixth sense.
A psychic tarot reading with an experienced reader at Chat2Psychic can provide you with validation of your spiritual ritual skills this autumn.