10 Autumnal Things To Do

Halloween is almost upon us, whether you like it or not, there really is no getting away from it. The shops are all decked out with ghosts, witches and skulls, the adverts are all about being spooky and as you walk around outside, you can see lots of decor in people’s gardens.

If you are someone who loves to get into the spirit of things, loves to have people to come over and your house looks like a horror movie set, then fantastic, love it and enjoy. However, if you wish you could forget it was happening then here are 10 ways to celebrate autumn without the scary aspect:

1. Leaves – Collect lots of fallen leaves and create a wreath to hang on your door. Wreaths are not all about Christmas, there are so many videos available online to show you how to make one. Give it a go. This is a beautiful way to showcase the best autumn can offer.
2. Pumpkins – whilst they are a staple part of Halloween you don’t need to carve a scary face in them to bring them into your house. Instead, buy them to decorate your home or your garden, paint them or buy a variety of different sizes and display them. Put on your doorstep with an autumnal wreath hanging on your door and there you go a wonderful way to celebrate autumn.
3. Dark nights – They are upon us, but instead of putting all the lights on, why not buy lots of candles – fake or real and use these to light up your home, creating a cosy atmosphere, just grab a blanket and snuggle up on the sofa with your loved ones.
4. Warm drinks – Coming in from being out in the cold or just feeling a little chillier whilst you wait for the heating to kick in or until you find your favourite warm sweater, make a warm drink. It could be a full on fancy hot chocolate with marshmallows and cream or just keep it simple. Make sure it is in a huggable mug and enjoy. There are so many warm drinks you can have to keep cosy – spiced pumpkin lattes are available in various places, so you can make it seasonal.
5. Homely Food – As described above it is all about being cosy and warm. As autumn is about harvest time and gathering food. Apples are abundant at this time, why not make a spicy apple crumble. A warming comfort for this time of year. Or use seasonal vegetables to make beautiful soup such as butternut squash or potato. Mmmm tasty.
6. Thankful – The harvest brought abundance and was very much about being thankful for all the food we have been lucky to gather. This is a great time to think about or even write down a few things a day you are thankful for. Whether it is the food on your table, the family by your side or the pets that we snuggle. There is so much in everyday we have to be thankful for.
7. Slow down – The dark nights, the colder weather, like the animals we retreat into our homes awaiting spring. But slowing down doesn’t mean you don’t see or interact with people, whilst we may not be socialising outside, invite people over, make some great warming seasonal food and enjoy.
8. Move on – As the leaves fall off the trees, make a decision in your life to let go of things that no longer work for you. It could be a grudge you’ve held, or an attitude towards someone or something from your past. If it is holding you back from moving forward to the life you want, then work towards moving on. It may not be as simple as waking up one morning and making the decision it could take time, you may require help, but take the small steps now to help you move forward.
9. Be active – Whilst the idea of going outside may not be appealing, it is always great to go outdoors and enjoy the breezy, cool autumn days. A quick 20 minute walk a day is all that is needed. So don’t avoid the outdoors, grab your hat, gloves, scarf and you warm coat and enjoy looking around at the effects of autumn as you walk. Take note of the sights, sounds and smells. You will always feel good upon returning from your walk, so don’t miss it out.
10. Create an autumn wish list – This might seem strange – but all you are really doing is making a list of things you wish to do over the coming weeks – you could make it an end of year list. Be realistic about what you can achieve – you might wish to read a few books, or paint a bedroom, keep it simple and don’t over commit. It might be one task or project a week. Have fun with it, this is about your personal life so make sure it is what YOU want to do and not someone else.

As you can see, autumn is not just about Halloween, there is so much more too it. So sack off the Halloween and think autumnal. Enjoy the season, it will be over too quickly and we will be in winter – perhaps you can create your own list for then.

Have a great week, thank you very much for reading.

Look after you. Love Emma xx