(Posted 2025 September)
Ah, fall—that season where you have permission to slow down and indulge yourself. The shorter, cooler days give way to cozy rituals that focus on pampering you. And September invites opportunity for realignment and growth. This can include setting new intentions for the season, preparing for the upcoming holidays, reconnecting with your daily routine, and building different daily habits. Try any—or all—of these 10 activities to prioritize emotional well-being as the seasons change:
- Attend wellness workshops. Community workshops focusing on self-care techniques, including yoga, aromatherapy, and nutrition, are common this time of year.
- Connect with nature. Outdoor activities like hiking and nature walks gain traction as people seek to reconnect with nature. Seasonal changes encourage activities like peeping the leaves as they change colors, birdwatching, and outdoor photography.
- Create cozy spaces. Make your home warm and inviting with soft lighting, blankets, and seasonal decor.
- Do a digital detox. If we are being honest, reducing screen time to improve your mental health can be done any season, but fall is as good a time to start as any. Opt for offline activities (high school football games, anybody?) and social interactions.
- Eat for the season. Take a cue from coffee shops and go with seasonal foods, such as pumpkins and apples. An added bonus? These foods are loaded with health benefits. Add nutritious comfort foods, like roasted veggies, soups, and stews, to your menus.
- Go simple. Sip a warm drink while watching the sunset.
- Increase focus on mindfulness. Think: meditation and deep breathing exercises to manage stress and anxiety. Apps and online resources for guided sessions are popular.
- Say farewell to summer. Print your photos from your warm-weather activities and travels and organize them into a scrapbook.
- Start (or expand) an indoor hobby. Reading, journaling, coloring, and crafting scream “do me by the fireplace!”
- Swap quick showers for lazy, warm baths. Add your favorite body wash.
Taking the time to focus on your needs and engaging in self-care activities that bring you joy can help move you toward the end of the year feeling inspired and motivated.
This article posting is part of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services' Volunteer Voices monthly newsletter for current and potential volunteers. If you're not already a volunteer, learn how to get involved. Find out about upcoming trainings, volunteer trainings, happenings around the DSVS office and information about articles, books, media recommendations and more.
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