Summer may still be here right now (just about…), but autumn is just around the corner.

When does autumn start, I hear you ask!

Well, officially, it starts on Saturday 23rd September 2023 in the UK.

But of course, with the unpredictability of weather recently we may well start seeing browning leaves and pumpkin spiced lattes sooner than we anticipate!

Autumn is a transitional season, and can often bring with it a busy diary as the start of the academic year.

Darker, wetter and colder mornings, days and evenings also generally don’t help with mood, and so self-care is perhaps even more important during this season.

As part of my mindful journey to practising wellbeing everyday and nourishing my mind, body and soul, I’ve been thinking about how this change in season may affect my mood, and how I can better prepare for this.

There’s so many simple self-care steps you can add to your autumn morning and evening routines. Too many for me to even list! But as a starting point, here are some autumn self-care ideas to consider adding to your routine:

• focus on hydrating skincare – lots of Hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides!
• take a long walk in nature
• light a scented candle
• use earthy, scented oils
• treat yourself to an indulgent hot chocolate (whipped cream, marshmallows, the full works!)
• practice grounding breathwork
• play board games with friends and family (great for a digital detox evening)
• enjoy nourishing and warming meals (think cinnamon banana porridge for breakfast and homemade pumpkin soup for dinner – yum!)
• take a hot bath and chill out with an at-home spa evening
• practice pilates or yoga (or even just take a good five minute stretch)
• listen to wellness podcasts – two of my favourites right now are Glowing & Growing and Deliciously Ella’s podcast
• write your daily gratitude list and keep up journalling
• read by the fireplace or in bed
• be cosy in your loungewear and pyjamas – Chelsea Peers is the place to look for stunning loungewear that is amazing quality and is just a vibe
• get under a heated blanket (super cosy while also helpful for reducing electricity / heating bills!)
• pick up a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks – or make your own!
• have a picnic in the car with plenty of blankets and a starry viewpoint
• try knitting, crochet or cross stitching
• make the most of seasonal autumn produce
• roast marshmallows over your fire pit or BBQ
• have a movie marathon evening (or weekend – no judgement here!)

I do hope this post is helpful for some autumn self-care ideas! Just remember, you don’t have to try and do all of them. Experiment and see what makes you feel best, and pick some core activities for every day and then others might be incorporated weekly or monthly.

Check out the luna wellbeing club Autumn Self Care Pinterest board for even more ideas! x