Last Updated on October 22, 2024 by Angela Vaz
Fall is here!
And as much as I love being productive and getting everything ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas – I feel like I’ve been rushing.
Quite recently, I had to pop into the doc’s office because I had an illness that was the direct repercussion of stress. Basically, my stress triggered my acidity and I was dealing with some nasty symptoms.
The doc quite literally told me to relax so I could lower my cortisol – so I’ve been trying to immerse myself in self-care as and when I can.
Doing this has helped me improve my mental, emotional and physical state!
So, I’m writing this post to help you slow down but do it in a cozy- autumn way so you can spark some creativity as well. 😉
I’m also going to link to a lovely post of fall-activities for adults incase you’re running out of ideas of things to do.
Let’s get started!
1. Warm up in a cozy blanket
We’re always looking at our to-dos and running around.
For once, slow down – it’s okay to just slow down and do nothing. Hustle culture is extremely overrated.
So, snuggle up in a warm blanket to feel secure and relaxed.
Let your mind drift.
Enjoy a chilly evening that is warm and comfortable.
2. Enjoy a hot cup of tea
I always let myself become addicted to a particular hot drink.
While my partner loves coffee, I have become a connoisseur for tea.
I got myself a shelf where I collect different types of tea for different occasions. I bought this Assorted Speciality Teas Box that allowed me to discover different types of tea so that I could explore more tastes and learn more about the benefits of tea.
Since it’s fall, you can choose a seasonal tea like chai or cinnamon to warm up and soothe your senses.
Brownie points if you pair this with a fall-themed book!
3. Go for a nature walk
A walk clears the mind.
Every time I feel stressed or bogged down by tasks, I go for a walk in my apartment society. When I was younger, I’d cross the street to go to the park.
Enjoy the crisp air and just admire the beautify of colorful autumn leaves – it will help.
There is a reason why walking in fresh air is recommended to almost everyone.
If walking outside is too time-consuming because you’re working/studying – go to the terrace and just take a moment to breathe.
4. Take a warm bubble bath
Yes, this post is about self-indulging just a tiny bit so that you can put yourself first for once.
Relax your muscles and unwind in a bath. I got this really cute pumpkin spice bath bomb that I can’t wait to try!
5. Bake homemade pumpkin bread
The aroma of fresh-baked bread can be comforting, and the process itself is so relaxing.
If you love baking bread or cakes – this is such a delightful experience.
You can find a recipe online that you love, get the groceries, follow it from start to finish and immerse yourself in this experience.
I often bake and more than consuming the goods, I enjoy the whole process of mixing, heating the oven, checking on it from time to time and appreciating the final masterpiece once I take it out of the oven.
I also snap pictures while my dogs stand outside and sniff at the air outside the oven. Ha ha.
6. Light a pumpkin-scented candle
I got this pumpkin spiced candle from Amazon, I’ve been enjoying Yankee candles ever since I was little, and I absolutely love this scent!
7. Write in a gratitude journal
I don’t know about you, but I am pretty hard on myself when I don’t achieve my goals.
I remember falling sick last month and being in bed for 2 whole weeks – I felt unproductive, lousy and frustrated.
I was so mad that I could do nothing except rest.
I was so tired, I couldn’t even read – and that’s my favorite hobby.
After a week of being in bed, I realized that something was definitely wrong.
I wasn’t giving permission to my body to heal and rest – rest that it so badly needed to recuperate and feel better.
I felt like I was being unkind to myself.
And that’s when a switch went off.
I knew something needed to change.
I had to take it easy and relax.
So, I became more consistent with my gratitude journal. It helped me become more grateful to everything I had going in my life.
My perspective changed.
Start a gratitude journal on what you’re thankful for to cultivate positivity during the season.
8. Try out a new fall recipe
Maybe you can recreate a recipe from your childhood. I often do this when I miss my mom’s cooking.
You can go back and recreate something traditional, or you can look for a new recipe to add to your favorites.
It can be something simple or grand.
This week, I want to try cooking something hearty and seasonal like a butternut squash soup for my partner and me.
9. Wear fuzzy socks
Just be silly.
It’s okay to want to feel snug and cozy while adding a little whimsy to your day.
Keep your feet warm and feel cozy and snug as temperatures drop.
10. Watch your favorite fall movie
Cozy up with something nostalgic or autumn-themed films to get into the groove.
You can watch something super cheezy as well.
Here are some lovely ideas for fall-themed movies.
11. Knit or crochet a scarf
I actually did this when I was younger and it was the best 3 days of my life.
I fully immersed myself in it – I got all excited, watched some YouTube videos and played some slow jazz music while I focused on nothing but knitting.
It’s a great way to practice mindfulness and immerse yourself in a little creativity!
12. Enjoy a fall-themed playlist
You can look for one on Youtube or Spotify or just compile your own.
I usually listen to BGM or Studio Ghibli but I like to change things up once in a while.
Listen to calming, acoustic music to match the cozy vibe of autumn.
13. Make a DIY Autumn Wreath
This is why I love Pinterest.
It’s got such amazing ideas and I love adding pins to my board just to have a neverending list of crafts I can do when I am having a slow day.
14. Sip on hot apple cider
The warmth and spiced flavor of apple cider will instantly make you feel cozy.
You can also make it from scratch – that’s another mindful activity for you!
15. Take a nap by the fire
If you have a fireplace, this is such a beautiful and mindful way to lose yourself completely.
Let the warmth and crackle of a fire lull you into a peaceful sleep.
16. Wear oversized sweaters
I love ugly Christmas sweaters and I start celebrating Christmas a little too early but it makes me feel so warm and cozy.
17. Journal your autumn intentions
Write down goals or reflections fo the reason to stay grounded.
You can honestly write anything you want in your journal – that’s the beauty of being creative and letting yourself go in your journal.
You don’t need to overthink it at all – don’t focus on being perfect, just write.
18. Do a fall-themed puzzle!
love puzzles.
I usually get the 1000-piece ones because I can finish them in a day and it’s a beautiful way to pass the time!
I got this one to celebrate the fall and I loved doing it!
19. Enjoy a slow morning
How often have you had one of those?
My mornings (even though they’re not rushed), they’re always timed.
I do everything at a certain time. I read, I do my Duolingo, I take my dogs for a walk, make breakfast, go on my treadmill and get ready for the day all before 7:00 am.
It’s hard and sometimes I just want to wake up and take it easy.
So, for once, savor the slower pace of autumn mornings by taking your time with breakfast and a hot drink.
20. Make your own chai latte
As I said earlier – tea and chai are a huge part of my existence now. 😛
So, I will always tell people to try making chai at home – it’s so declious and you can have it every single day after a savoury breakfast.
Try crafting a homemade spiced chai to warm your body and soul.
I like adding cardamom and ginger to mine with a little bit of sugar. It’s amazing.
21. Take a digital detox day
Being on your Kindle reading doesn’t count – don’t worry.
Disconnect from technology and enjoy a quiet, tech-free day in nature or at home!
22. Read a cozy mystery novel
I recently read Vera Wong’ Unsolicited Advice for Murderers. It’s about an old, cranky woman who wakes up at 4 and is super controlling (just like me) trying to solve a murder that happens in her very own tea shop.
This book was pleading with me to read it. So, I did and I loved it.
This is a warm and cozy book. And I loved it!
23. Do some gentle yoga
Practice slow, grounding yoga poses to stay connected with your body during the cooler months.
It will not just relax you, but it will also help your body become more flexible and hurt less during the winter months.
24. Burn incense
I do this because it reminds me so much of my mom who burned incense all the time when she did her house chores.
Here in India, we get mosquito-repellent incense that’s made with lemongrass – it not just drives mosquitoes away, it’s also heavenly.
Scents like sandalwood or cinnamon can create a calming cozy environment.
25. Bake cinnamon rolls
These are my favorite and I have a soft spot for them.
The sweet and spicy aroma of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven will bring a sense of warmth to your home.
And not to mention – you can scarf them down in a hot minute.
26. Try aromatherapy with essential oils
I only learned about this when my older dog’s vet suggested aromatherapy for her. My older dog has anxiety just like her owner (me) and I learned that it helped her and me.
Diffuse oils like clove, ginger, or cedarwood to evoke fall coziness.
27. Enjoy a hot chocolate with marshmallows
Fall is all about pleasuring your sense of smell and taste with fall-themed goodness.
So, indulge in a sweet, creamy hot chocolate to satisfy your autumn cravings.
You can do it while journalling or reading!
28. Practice deep breathing outdoors
Again, use your balcony, if you can’t step out.
Breathe in the cool, crisp autumn air to refresh your mind and body.
29. Take a weekend getaway to a cabin
Escape to a quiet, rustic cabin to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.
30. Host a cozy movie marathon
I know a lot of these activities are centered around being by yourself but seeing friends does do something for our social battery and it helps us feel more connected and happy.
Invite friends over for an all-day movie marathon with blankets and snacks.
31. Make caramel apples
Channel your inner child by making this classic fall treat.
32. Do some leaf pressing
I learned this on Pinterest as well.
Collect and press colorful leaves to preserve the beauty of the season. I even like making postcards that I write little notes to myself on and keep them as bookmarks or give it to people I love.
33. Take a candlelit bath
Turn off the lights and relax in a soothing bath surrounded by the soft glow of the candles.
And meditate.
Or just let go.
34. Wear plaid flannel
Embrace fall fashion with a cozy plaid shirt or flannel pajamas.
Everyone should own a set, I feel.
35. Bake cookies with fall spices
I am a succer for dark chocolate chip cookies and I really needed to spice things up (pun intended).
This is also a lovely way to fill your home with the delicious smells of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
36. Go to a farmer’s market
Buy seasonal produce and enjoy the sense of community at local autumn markets.
37. Make a vision board for fall
Visualize your autumn goals and inspirations by creating a fall-themed vision board.
Currently, mine involve getting outside more and relaxing a bit more too.
38. Attend a fall festival
Immerse yourself in the season by enjoying local festivals, hayrides, or pumpkin patches.
39. Have an autumn picnic
Pack seasonal snacks and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by fall foliage.
You can do this alone – remember this entire post is about self-care. But you can also go with your partner, pet or family just to liven it up a bit.
40. Drink a pumpkin spice latte
I should have put this on top of my list – but oh well.
Treat yourself to the ultimate autumn drink and savor its cozy flavor.
You can make one at home following a YouTube tutorial, or just go to your nearest Starbucks.
41. Wear a cozy scarf
Just wrap a scarf around your neck and plan your whole outfit to go with it. I like looking on Pinterest for inspiration.
42. Enjoy a fireside chat with friends
Since we don’t own a fireplace, we rented an airbnb with one and we all got together and had a lovely time talking, laughing and sharing stories.
It was so much fun, that we forgot to take photos.
43. Make your own fall potpourri
Create a blend of dried fruit, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to freshen your home with seasonal scents.
44. Wrap gifts with autumn-themed paper
Prepare early for the holiday season by wrapping gifts with warm, autumnal colors.
Maybe people won’t notice, but that’s not the point.
The whole idea is to slow down and do more things with your hands so you can take it easy, relax and feel more happy.
45. Have a cozy reading nook
Set up a corner with blankets, pillows and a good book (or 20) for a perfect reading spot!
If you’re looking for spooky witchy books to read, I have a post to help!
46. Journal your favorite fall memories
Write about your favorite autumn experiences to cherish the season.
47. Take a fall-themed photo walk
If you love photography, this is perfect.
Capture the beauty of autumn on camera and appreciate the details of the season.
48. Wear warm slippers
Keep your feet cozy around the house with soft, fluffy slippers.
49. Make homemade soup
It’s easy to pour that stuff out from a can, but why not become more slow and intentional?
And enjoy the whole process of making from scratch?
Cooking a hearty pot of soup can be comforting and nourishing during the cooler months.
50. Make a pumpkin mask
Pamper yourself with a DIY skincare mask using pumpkin which is rich in vitamins and smells so good.
You can also get this one from Amazon which smells just as yummy.
51. Decorate your home with fall foliage
Bring the outdoors in by decorating with autumn leaves, pinecones, and pumpkins.
52. Bake an apple pie
The scent of baking apples and spices will make your home feel extra inviting.
I have a book on Snow White baking apple pie and everytime I read it, I head to the kitchen to bake one.
53. Spend an entire afternoon journaling
Reflect on your emotions and thoughts with a quiet journaling session.
54. Go apple picking
Enjoy this classic fall activity and bring home fresh apples to bake or snack on.
55. Cuddle with your pet
If you have a pet, enjoy some cuddle time to feel warmth and companionship.
The only reason I actually remember to slow down is because of my pups – they remind me why life is worth living and why it’s important to take a moment to breathe.
They also motivate me to get out of the house – rain or shine.
56. Wear a beanie or knitted hat
I don’t know why more people don’t wear them – it’s friggin’ cute.
But this is such a lovely way to embrace fall!
57. Try an autumn-scented hand lotion
Moisturize your hands with lotions that smell like pumpkin, apple, or cinnamon.
58. Go to a pumpkin patch
Visit a local pumpkin patch to pick your own pumpkins and embrace the festive spirit.
59. Have a bonfire night
Gather around a bonfire with friends to roast marshmallows and enjoy the crisp night air.
Tell scary stories and remember to carry bug spray.
60. Paint pumpkins
Try a creative twist on pumpkin decorating by painting them with cute or spooky designs.
61. Make a cozy fall drink station
Set up a corner in your kitchen with everything needed for hot chocolate, tea, or cider.
62. Try new fall nail colors
Experiment with warm, earthy nail colors like burnt orange, burgundy, or deep green.
63. Write letters to loved ones
You can also go a step further and make hand-drawn cards – I am not kidding when I tell you that it genuinely makes people’s hearts melt.
Embrace the slower pace of autumn by writing letters to friends or family.
If you don’t want to write a whole letter, get some autumn-themed postcards (hand-drawn maybe) and write little notes to the people you love.
64. Enjoy a quiet morning mediation
Start your day with a peaceful grounding meditation session.
65. Roast pumpkin seeds
After carving pumpkins, roast the seeds for a crunchy, savory snack.
66. Plant fall flowers
Add some autumn beauty to your garden or window box with chrysanthemums or pansies.
67. Set up fairy lights
Add a warm, magical glow to your home by hanging up twinkling fairy lights for extra coziness.
It brings back memories from my childhood so I do this every October.
68. Build a blanket fort
You’re never too old to do this, trust me.
Channel your inner child and create a cozy hideaway for relaxing or reading.
69. Go stargazing on a clear autumn night
Bundle up and gaze at the stars on a cool, crisp night for a calming experience.
70. Cook a hearty stew
A warm, filling stew can bring comfort and nourish your body on a chilly day.
And trust me, it’s very healing – food always is.
71. Try a cozy craft like macramé
Learn a new skill while making something decorative, such as a wall hanging or plant holder.
72. Savor a butterscotch or caramel dessert
These rich flavors evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
73. Host a potluck with friends
Share comfort food with friends by hosting a cozy, autumn-themed potluck dinner.
74. Watch a sunrise or sunset
The cooler air makes for stunning, beautiful skies – and it’s underrated, it truly is, just watching the sunrise/sunset.
And it gets even sweeter if you do it with your pet.
75. Visit a local bakery
Treat yourself to a fall-flavored pastry, like pumpkin scones or apple turnovers.
Oh gosh, what a treat – but you deserve to spoil yourself a bit. So, have fun!
Use this autumn season to slow down, embrace coziness, and prioritize your self-care.
I hope these ideas inspired you to take it down a notch and just relax.
Pin to save for later!
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