Autumn Mindfulness: Do You Ever Feel Like Fall Just Slips Away from You?

Have you found ways yet to really sink into autumn? We're about at its middle, so now is the time if you haven't already.

Every season is one of transformation. You can observe that, just by watching what happens in nature. And I would say, too, that they each bring their own energy.

So if we can be mindful, and tune into those subtle shifts as they occur, then we can align our own energy and daily practices to the seasonal changes we observe.

But to be honest, I sometimes forget to pay attention. And then, later, I feel like I missed it.

So let's look at how we can all plant our feet solidly in autumn, before it gives way to winter.
​

Autumn's Seasonal Changes

What have you noticed, so far, with the seasonal shifts fall is making?

I'm noticing cooler morning temperatures, earlier sunsets - which means a shortening of the days - and more beauty in the way the sun covers the leaves of the trees I can see through the window. That last one might be because of the changing color of the leaves.

But I'm also noticing that fall is shifting me.

Early fall is often the time when there's just enough light for me. I still use my light box, but I don't feel so anxious about making sure I get enough time in front of it.

By mid-October, though, I begin craving carbs and I start adding a little more to my plate at dinner. I also notice when it gets dark after a summer of barely being aware of the day transitioning to night.

Are you noticing any changes in yourself?

Let's think through how to get the most of these fall days, while also prioritizing self-care rituals and spiritual practices that nurture us, as we notice nature's transitions and our own.
​

Fall self-care rituals can be as simple as wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket with a steaming mug of spiced tea, or as elaborate as creating a full autumn-themed spa day at home, complete with a pumpkin-scented face mask or body butter.

Fall Self-Care Journal Prompts

Here are some journal/reflection question to get you thinking...

How can you create a cozy, nurturing space for yourself at home this fall?

List some fall activities that could make you feel more centered, grounded and present.

What are some of your favorite fall scents? How can you incorporate them into your daily routine so you can enjoy them more?

How can you simplify your schedule to reduce stress this fall?

What is one way you can reconnect with yourself this fall?

Visualize a fall self-care ritual you would like to try this year.

What fall self-care practice do you want to focus on the most this year?

How can you ease the transition into winter and the holiday season?

Choose Comfort & Make Time
​for Yourself this Fall

I'd like to encourage you to consider making these commitments to yourself for the remainder of fall...

I commit to slowing down and making time to enjoy the comfort and coziness of fall and allow my home to become a cozy sanctuary.

I commit to a comforting morning routine, a daily rhythm that soothes me and to practicing self-care in small moments throughout the day.

I commit to quiet, peaceful moments alone to help me stay centered, grounded and present.

I commit to reconnecting with myself & my intentions this fall by giving myself time for reflection.

I commit to being gentle with myself as the season changes, and to honoring my needs.

Two Fall Ritual Ideas
​I Recommend

(1) Harvest Ritual - light a fall scented candle, grab your journal and reflect on the seeds you planted toward the beginning of the year. What has your harvest been?

Celebrate with a slice of apple pie. Or at least a cup of tea or a pumpkin spiced latte :)

(2) Letting Go Ritual - light a tealight candle and then make a list of what was not harvested this year, or of experiences that challenged you in some way.

Celebrate the ways they shaped you that you are thankful for, and then let go of the rest, by putting the list underneath the candle. When it burns out, the ritual is complete. If you have a fire pit or fireplace, you could use them, instead and literally watch your list burn away.

My Own Fall Experiences

I have been loving fall scents this season!

I also have transformed my wardrobe into a thing of beauty, all with autumn colors.

Although I didn't do either recommended ritual process within a ritual, I did do the contemplation and the letting go. More than once, actually.

Hurricane Helene stole almost a week of light from me, but I rebounded within a few days once the power was back on.

And I'm hoping to acquire a pumpkin candle soon, and a new journal, so my fall self-care rituals will get an upgrade. I'm also adding more time in front of my light, so I'll feel better emotionally.
​

My Hope for us this Fall

​I'm hoping that if we can think through a few journal questions, try a ritual or two and honor commitments like these, then not only will we enjoy fall more, we'll ease into the holiday season and be empowered to make the most of it as well.
​
What have you done or will you do to honor fall?

See you next time!

Love, Jeanine