Mindful beginnings: Embrace a Fresh Start with Autumn Intentions
- Eva
- Sep 9, 2024
- 5 min read
”Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.” /E.Bronte/
Hello, wonderful people!
As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, I find myself welcoming autumn with open arms—and perhaps an extra layer of clothing! There’s something about this season that just feels like a fresh start, a chance to reset and embrace new intentions for growth and transformation.
Now, I know we all have those down days when the weather turns grey, and it’s tempting to hibernate until spring. But trust me, it’s worth trying to cheer yourself up, even if it’s just with a cup of something warm or a mindful chat with a friend. And hey, if no one’s around, why not flash a smile at a stranger? It could make both of your days a little brighter.
Autumn, after all, is nature’s way of showing us that change isn’t just inevitable—it’s beautiful. As the leaves transform into a stunning palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, we too can take this time to reflect, reset, and set new intentions for the autumn season.
In this post, I’ll share how you can embrace the magic of autumn with tips on mindfulness, self-care, and enjoying the season’s unique offerings.
Letting Go of What No Longer Serves You
Autumn is the perfect time to let go—just as trees shed their leaves, we can release what no longer serves us. Whether it’s old habits, negative thoughts, or even that cluttered drawer you’ve been avoiding, this is the season to make space for new growth.
Personally, I love to write down what I’m ready to release, then tear the paper into tiny pieces and toss it away—sometimes, I’ll even burn it in the fireplace (safely, of course!). It’s a cathartic ritual that helps me create space for new intentions. Journaling is a must for me, especially during this reflective season. I write down my thoughts on what I’m eager to embrace as the season changes.
Tip: Light a scented candle as you journal—I’m all about that pumpkin spice fragrance this time of year. The soft glow and comforting aroma can help create a serene atmosphere, making it easier to connect with your inner thoughts.
” Lets takes our hearts for a walks through the autumn woods and listen to the magical whispers of old trees.”
Enjoying the Beauty of Autumn in Nature
There’s something truly magical about the autumn landscape. Whether you’re taking a leisurely walk, hiking through the woods, or capturing the beauty with your camera (my go-to mindfulness practice), immersing yourself in nature during this season can be incredibly restorative. The crisp air, the rustling leaves underfoot, and the vibrant colours all serve as gentle reminders to slow down and savour the mindful moment.
Tip: Dress warmly if the weather’s cool and bring along a camera to capture the stunning autumn palette. These photos can serve as beautiful reminders of the autumn season’s serenity, and you might even find inspiration for new creative projects.
Creating a Cozy Atmosphere at Home
As the days grow shorter and cooler, there’s nothing quite like coming home to a warm, inviting space. This is the season to bring out the cosy blankets, light those autumn-scented candles, and perhaps even rearrange your home to reflect the autumn season’s charm. A cup of pumpkin spice latte (my personal weakness), a good book by the fireplace or a simple evening cuddling with your loved ones can make the autumn season feel even more special.
Tip: Host a cosy get-together with friends. Serve up your favourite autumn dishes—think hearty stews and a special pumpkin soup—and enjoy the warmth of good company as you chat about the season’s delights. Every year, I prepare my special pumpkin soup and invite my closest friends over for an autumn feast—it’s a tradition I cherish.
Staying Active and Embracing the Outdoors
Just because the weather’s cooler doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. Autumn is a fantastic time to stay active, whether through running, biking, or hiking. The key is to dress appropriately—layer up with warm clothing, and don’t forget a hat and gloves if it’s particularly chilly. The brisk air can invigorate you, and the changing scenery makes every outdoor adventure a little more magical. What can be more mindful!
Tip: If you enjoy bike riding, plan your routes around the most scenic areas to fully appreciate the autumn colours. And if the weather turns rainy, don’t let it stop you—just swap your bike ride for a walk with a sturdy umbrella.
Autumn Crafts and Activities
One of the joys of autumn is the abundance of natural materials that lend themselves to creative projects. Pine cones, colourful leaves, and acorns can all be transformed into beautiful autumn art pieces. If you have little ones, this is a great way to spend quality time together, creating something special that reflects the season.
Tip: Plan a nature walk with your children, collecting pine cones, leaves, and other treasures to use in your autumn crafts. Not only is this a wonderful way to connect with nature, but it also encourages creativity and mindfulness. Plus, you’ll end up with some unique autumn decorations for your home!
Savouring Autumn’s Flavours
Autumn is a season rich in flavours, from the spices in a warm pumpkin latte to the heartiness of a homemade stew. Take this time to experiment in the kitchen, trying out new recipes that celebrate the best of autumn’s bounty. Whether it’s baking a spiced cake, making your favourite soup, or simply enjoying a fresh apple, autumn is all about savouring life’s simple pleasures.
Tip: Make a ritual out of cooking and enjoying autumn meals. Invite family or friends to join you in the kitchen, turning meal prep into a shared experience that brings everyone closer together. My kids and I love to make baked apples with heaps of cinnamon—it’s a simple, yet delicious autumn treat!
Conclusion: Embrace Autumn Change and Find Joy in the Simple Things
Autumn is a time of change, but with change comes the opportunity for growth and renewal. By setting intentional goals, immersing yourself in nature, and embracing the season’s cosy and creative opportunities, you can make the most of this beautiful time of year. Remember, it’s not just about the big transformations; sometimes, the smallest moments—like a walk in the woods, a chat with a friend over a cup of coffee, or a quiet evening spent journaling—can be the most meaningful.
Inspiration:
As the leaves fall and the days grow shorter, let’s change together with the season, shedding what no longer serves us and welcoming the warmth, beauty, and peace that autumn brings. Enjoy every moment, and let this season be a reminder that change, in all its forms, can be truly wonderful.
With autumn greetings,
Eva
My latest Research & Sources:
Setting autumn intentions and embracing seasonal changes can positively impact mental health and well-being.
According to experts in mindfulness and psychology, seasonal rituals, like those mentioned above, can help anchor us in the present moment and foster a sense of connection with the world around us.
Studies suggest that engaging in nature, practicing mindfulness through journaling, and maintaining social connections during autumn can significantly enhance mood and reduce stress.
For more on the psychological benefits of seasonal changes, check out resources from the Journal of Environmental Psychology sciencedirect.com and Mindful.org.
I hope this resonates with you, and I’d love to hear about how you’re embracing autumn! Let me know in a comments below!
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