24 Soothing Fall Self Care Activities: Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice

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As the air turns crisp and the tree leaves transform into vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange, the autumn season serves as the perfect reminder to slow down and take care of yourself. Fall self care activities, such as pumpkin carving, cozying up with a warm drink, or trying new self-care products, can not only help you unwind but also improve your mental health. Let’s explore how to make the most out of the fall’s beautiful season with self care Sundays that nurture the mind, body, and soul. Whether you’re taking time for yourself with a good book, crafting seasonal items, or using fidget rings to manage anxiety, we’ve got you covered with everything you need for a peaceful, restorative fall season.

Why Fall is the Perfect Season for Self-Care

Fall is a time of transition and not just for nature but for us, too. The shorter days and cooler temperatures remind us to slow down, reflect, let go of what no longer serves our highest good, and recharge. It’s the perfect time for pausing and appreciating life’s simple pleasures, such as a warm cup of tea, a good book, or the scent of freshly baked pumpkin bread. Perhaps you consider yourself a basic betch? It’s time for pumpkin spice-everything. Fall is all about feeling good, making it the perfect season to focus on self care activities that promote coziness, relaxation and mental wellness.

Benefits of Seasonal Self-Care for Mental Health

Indulging in cozy fall self-care activities goes beyond relaxation, providing you with all kinds of mental health benefits too. Seasonal self-care can reduce stress, ease anxiety, and improve mood by tapping into the soothing rhythms of nature ¹. For example, walking through a forest of fall foliage or carving pumpkins can activate mindfulness, keeping you in the present moment and away from anxious thoughts. The calming effect of these activities is perfect for those dealing with stress or anxiety, allowing you to decompress in harmony with the season.

Here’s a quick recap of the benefits you can expect from practicing a little self care:

• Stress Reduction: Engaging in self-care helps decrease stress and anxiety levels by allowing the mind and body to relax (American Psychological Association, 2019).
• Improved Mood: Regular self-care practices can boost feelings of happiness and well-being (National Institute of Mental Health, 2021).
• Enhanced Emotional Health: It helps individuals process emotions, reduce burnout, and build emotional resilience (Mayo Clinic, 2021).
• Better Coping Mechanisms: Self-care activities such as mindfulness and journaling improve the ability to manage life’s stressors and develop healthier responses to emotional challenges (Mental Health Foundation, 2020).
• Increased Self-Esteem: Taking time for self-care reinforces a positive self-image and self-worth by showing yourself compassion and respect (Verywell Mind, 2021).
• Prevent Mental Health Issues: Regular self-care can help prevent burnout, anxiety, and depression by maintaining mental balance (World Health Organization, 2021).

Cozy Up with Fall Self-Care Activities

Whether it’s sipping on a warm cup of tea, reading a good self help book by candlelight, or surrounding yourself with soft blankets, fall self-care is all about some cozy relaxation. By embracing these simple yet nurturing practices, you can create a peaceful environment and mental health space that promotes stress relief and emotional balance, helping you make the most of this soothing season.

1. Layer Up Your Space

One of the best ways to enjoy some fall self care is to create a cozy atmosphere at home. Start by layering your space with soft blankets, lighting candles with fall scents like cinnamon or pumpkin spice, and curling up with a soothing cup of tea. A cozy setting helps promote relaxation and provides a sense of warmth and safety. Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite TV series or diving into a great book, these simple activities can help ease anxiety and make you feel grounded.

2. Hygge for Fall Self Care Ideas

The Danish concept of hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is all about creating cozy, comfortable environments that promote well-being. During fall, hygge might involve lighting a fire, enjoying a warm beverage, or hosting a small gathering of friends for an evening of relaxation. The practice of hygge aligns perfectly with the essence of fall self-care — focusing on comfort, simplicity, and enjoying the present.

3. Relax with Aromatherapy and Candles

Aromatherapy is another effective self care activity, especially in the fall. The scents of the season — cinnamon, clove, vanilla, and pumpkin spice — can evoke feelings of warmth and relaxation. Lighting a candle with these fragrances can instantly create a peaceful atmosphere in your home.

Plus, aromatherapy is known to reduce stress, improve mood, and help with sleep. So, it really is an excellent addition to your fall self-care routine. Opt for candles that use natural ingredients like essential oils to maximize their calming benefits.

4. Pumpkin Carving

Crafting is another fantastic way to engage in self-care during the fall. Pumpkin carving, for example, can be both a creative outlet and a therapeutic practice. The repetitive motion of carving, combined with the focus required, can help clear your mind and bring you into the present moment. Crafting activities, such as pumpkin carving or even decorating your home for Halloween allows you to express yourself artistically while also promoting mindfulness.

5. DIY Fall Crafts

Aside from pumpkin carving, consider other DIY fall crafts that can serve as self-care activities. Leaf pressing, wreath-making, or creating fall-themed decorations for your home can be highly meditative. These fall activities allow you to unplug, reduce stress, and immerse yourself in the simple joy of creating something beautiful with your hands.

6. Cook Up Fall Comfort

Cooking is an often-overlooked form of self-care, particularly when it comes to preparing comforting fall recipes. Making hearty soups, spiced baked goods, or warm drinks like apple cider can provide a therapeutic release. The process of cooking or baking — from selecting ingredients to creating something nourishing — is also deeply rewarding and calming. Plus, the rich flavors and aromas of fall ingredients such as pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg can stimulate your senses, grounding you in the present moment and giving you a boost of aromatherapy.

7. Apple Picking

Spending time outdoors is another key aspect of fall self-care, especially as the season brings stunning landscapes and crisp air. Activities like apple picking is a perfect fall activity that pairs mindfulness with physical exercise. As you move through the orchard, take time to notice the texture of the apples, the rustling of leaves, and the feel of the cool air on your skin. This focus on your surroundings helps quiet the mind and encourages a sense of gratitude, meditation and presence.

8. Leaf Peeping and Nature Walks

Leaf peeping, or observing the changing foliage, is another way to connect with nature during the fall. Taking a leisurely walk through a forest or park allows you to slow down, appreciate the beauty of your surroundings, and clear your mind of stress. Studies show that being in nature can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, making outdoor activities essential for mental health.

9. Fall in Love with Fidget Rings

For those who experience anxiety, small tools like fidget rings or worry stones can be incredibly helpful as part of your self-care routine. Fidget rings, sometimes called spinner rings or worry rings, allow you to channel nervous energy through repetitive motion, which can help calm the mind.

Shop our collection of soothing fidget rings for anxiety here.

10. Fidget with Worry Stones

Similarly, worry stones, which are smooth stones that you rub between your fingers ,offer a tactile way to ease anxious feelings. Incorporating these self care tools into your fall routine can add an extra layer of relaxation.

11. Healing Crystals

Healing crystals can also play a role in your fall self-care routine, especially for those interested in spiritual wellness. Crystals for anxiety, such as amethyst or rose quartz, can help promote calm and balance during stressful times. Keep them nearby during meditation or carry a worry stone with you throughout the day for added support.

Wearing gemstone jewelry, such as necklaces or bracelets made from healing stones like citrine or turquoise, can help balance your energy and bring a sense of peace. Wearing these stones during the fall season can enhance your connection to the earth and boost some emotional healing.

12. Take a Spooky Drive

Jump in the car and go for a drive to look for what-we-like-to-call “spookies”. These are homes that have decorating for halloween, bringing the joy and spirit of the season to everyone who walks by. This is a fun self care idea, as it gets you out of the house, out in fresh air and focusing on decorations, thus taking your mind away from anxious thoughts.

13. Focus on Fall Self Care Sundays

If practicing self care every day seems like too big of a task right now (that’s okay!), try to aim for at least one day a week. Self-care Sunday is a popular trend for dedicating one day a week to rest and relaxation, and fall is the perfect time to lean into this tradition. Spend your Sunday enjoying slow, mindful activities like reading, journaling, or practicing gentle yoga. Pair these rituals with seasonal elements like a cup of hot apple cider or the scent of a fall candle to create the ultimate relaxing experience.

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14. Sip Seasonal Beverages

Warm drinks like pumpkin spice lattes, chai tea, or mulled cider are perfect for cozying up on chilly days. These comforting beverages can also become part of a mindful practice, encouraging you to slow down and savor the moment.

15. Try Fall-Themed Journaling

Use the reflective nature of fall to start or enhance a journaling routine. Create a gratitude journal, set seasonal intentions, or reflect on your anxiety healing with our Anxiety Gone journal. Journaling can improve mental clarity and emotional health while celebrating the themes of change and transition that autumn brings.

16. Create a Fall Playlist

Curating a playlist filled with calming or uplifting tunes can enhance your self-care experience. Music has been proven to lower stress and improve mental health, so compiling songs that resonate with the cozy, reflective nature of fall can deepen your sense of relaxation.

We are currently obsessed with Devvon Terrell. He creates the perfect songs for anyone struggling with mental health or who are going through a healing season. Our “mental health day” playlist is filled with his tracks.

17. Baking Therapy

Baking fall-inspired treats like pumpkin bread, spiced cookies, or apple pie not only fills your home with comforting aromas but also offers a creative and therapeutic outlet. The tactile nature of baking, from kneading dough to measuring ingredients, encourages mindfulness and helps alleviate stress.

18. Fall-Themed Meditation

Use seasonal imagery, like falling leaves or cozy firesides, as a focus for meditation. Visualization techniques can help reduce anxiety and foster a sense of grounding and peace, making your meditation sessions more effective and enjoyable.

19. Create Cozy Evening Rituals

Set up a regular evening routine that includes your favorite fall activities. Light candles, brew herbal tea, and snuggle up with a blanket and a good book or movie. Establishing a routine helps signal to your brain that it’s time to relax, improving sleep quality and reducing stress.

20. Shoot Some Nature Photography

Take a camera or your phone outdoors to capture the beauty of fall. Observing the changing colors and shapes of the landscape can be a mindful practice that encourages presence and appreciation. Plus, spending time outdoors boosts mood and reduces symptoms of anxiety.

21. Seasonal Decluttering

As we know, mess equals stress! With the weather starting to cool, prepare your home for the cozy months ahead by decluttering and organizing. Decluttering can create a sense of mental clarity and peace, as a tidy space often reflects and promotes a tidy mind.

22. Herbal Baths

Soak in a warm bath infused with fall-inspired herbs like chamomile, lavender, or calendula. The warmth of the water, combined with the healing properties of the herbs, can soothe tired muscles and ease a busy mind.

23. Take a Fall Trip to a Farm

A fall trip to a local farm can be a fun and rejuvenating self-care activity. Many farms offer seasonal attractions like apple picking, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and hayrides. These fall activities allow you to connect with nature, enjoy the fresh autumn air, and engage in mindful, physical activities that promote relaxation. Visiting a farm also offers the opportunity to pick fresh, seasonal produce, which you can later use for fall recipes or home décor.

24. Plan a Fall Getaway

Even a short trip to a nearby park, cabin, or hiking trail can help you reconnect with nature and yourself. Book a weekend retreat during the fall season offers the perfect escape to reflect, recharge, and indulge in restorative self-care.

Spread The Spirit with Fall-Themed Self-Care Gift Sets

If you’re looking to extend the joy of fall self care activities to others, consider gifting a fall-themed self care set or boo basket. Items like candles, teas, bath salts, and fidget rings make thoughtful gifts for women and men alike, especially as get well soon gifts. These gift sets can be customized to suit the recipient’s tastes and provide a much-needed moment of calm during the busy fall season.

Final Thoughts on Some Soothing Fall Self Care

As the beauty of autumn surrounds you, indulging in some fall self care activities can provide a much-needed opportunity to slow down, reflect, and restore balance. From cozy indoor routines like reading with a warm drink to outdoor adventures such as farm visits or nature walks, fall offers countless ways to nurture your mental and emotional well-being. By integrating these activities into your daily life, you’ll not only enjoy the season’s simple pleasures but also encourage a greater sense of peace and mindfulness, creating a solid foundation for the months ahead. And let’s be honest: we all need the help we can get before the winter blues hit.

Explore our collection of self-care gifts and mental health baskets, designed to bring relaxation and comfort into your life or the life of a loved one.

Shop our collection today and make this season your most restful yet!

Infographics for Fall Self Care Activities

References:

1. Mordukhovich, I., Finneran, C., Li, X., Finucane, K. E., Weisskopf, M. G., & Laden, F. (2023). Occupational Exposures and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Risk in the Environmental and Occupational Exposures (EOE) Cohort. Environmental Health Perspectives, 131(5), Article 057001. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP11080