I’ve spent a lot of time waffling about the perks and excitement of Autumn coming, but it is also really easy to get taken over by the post-summer blues. Yes, it is exciting to think about the crisp-leaf walks, the pumpkin-themed everything, and cosying up in coats and furry throws – but don’t forget about the darker evenings, less visits from Mr Sunshine, and not being able to wear flip flops anymore.
I always get a little bit of down time, and I totally know that other people get it so much worse, so different things work for different people. Personally I have to just take a little bit of time to force myself to relax, go to my cosy place, and spend time doing something I enjoy doing.
1. Transform your space into a ‘Fall-Friendly’ place
It’s not the time for the summer vibes anymore, having reminders of Summer everywhere will just bring you down. Bring the autumn into your home – it’s a little thing, but making your space autumn-cosy will do so much for your mood, especially when you get home from being outside in the cold, and you’ve got candles and a faux fur throw ready to cramp under.
2. Have a movie day
Or a binge-tv show day. The whole point of bad weather days is to do nothing, and ’tis the season to have more bad weather days. Get Netflix at the ready, start adding those films to your list, and be ready for an impromptu movie day.
3. Treat yourself to a new autumn wardrobe
…but don’t think you have to hide away all the things you loved wearing in Summer. Invest in a cosy coat and the scarves and hats that go with it, and you’ll feel much better about any trips you have to make outside.
4. Have a treat bath
Not just a bath, a treat bath – bath bombs, candles, face mask, do the works. My favourite is setting my iPad up on the side with an episode of something easy to watch, then just sitting back and soaking in the bubbles.
5. Make plans
Along with the current social distancing and whatnot of course. Make socialising plans with your friends and keep yourself going out and about.
6. Pick up new hobbies
When the weather gets colder I start to switch my go to hobbies around a bit. I go back to reading, cycling (with warm clothes on), movie nights, all the things I can enjoy doing indoors.
7. Try to look on the bright side of things
Easier said than done sometimes, but try to see the positive. Sometimes if you make yourself think about it you can notice something that you hadn’t thought of before.
8. Find things you love to do indoors
It doesn’t just have to be things at home, look for things you can do out and about whatever the weather. My current favourite – once it’s back up and running – is ice skating.
9. When you need a down day, take a down day
Do you ever get that moment when you just want to listen to a sad song, have a little cry, and give your dog a big hug? When it hits, do it. Take five minutes to be on your own, get it all out, and then you’re ready to start again.
xx
