“Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns.”
- George Eliot
There’s something about autumn that I love and loathe. As a kid I loved the crisp mornings getting excited because I knew that I’d soon be able to break out my new sweaters. Warm weather still peeks through the day and it’s cool enough at night to get a morning chill. Fall is associated with renewal and that makes sense. We can shed old ways or reconnect with our pre-summer selves. Once the kids are back in their routines and beach days are gone we begin our own version of molting.
1. Reconnect with your work out
September is a big fitness season. As the family calendar takes over we get back to the business of health. For some this means actually working out again (you know who you are) and for others it means switching up the routine. I’ve never run outside in cooler weather, so I’m doing a little homework. Fall is also going to bring me back to my local yoga studio! Working out all summer could mean it’s time to renew gear as well. New sneakers or a yoga mat could help you stay on the right path!
2. Jump start your diet
Eat seasonally!!! Eat seasonally!!! My cooking shifts from grilling to roasting. I swap out fresh tomatoes for squash and mushrooms. Quinoa begins to make regular appearances and what I love most of all, SOUP SEASON!!! There is nothing like a hearty soup to make me giggle like wanda the witch from Sesame Street (which is creepy and cool at the same time). Renew your love of the kitchen by pulling down the crock pot and making soup. Crowd pleasers and freezer friendly. This fall and winter you’ll see a bunch of soup recipes from a&o so get ready!
3. Read a good book
All of the best books come out in fall!!! If you are a boo nerd like me, this is the mother of all autumn releases- some of the heavy hitters of the literary world are back! Zadie Smith, Tom Wolfe and JK Rowling’s adult novel will on the on the shelves. Reading is great stimulation for the brain and a soothing activity. Kids who see their parents read are more likely to read themselves.
4. Make time to make time
Did you know that a 2006 study said that meditating can be better for you than sleeping? Taking even a few minutes to collect your thoughts is great for you and others. I love early morning when I walk Dakota. It allows me to set intentions for the day and reflect on where I am. Take a minute in the shower just to pause can be beneficial. Try it!!
5. Don’t sweat the small stuff
“Don’t sweat the small stuff, because it’s all small stuff…” Cliche and overused, maybe. That doesn’t mean it’s untrue.
Check out a soothing video that can help you recharge and renew!
How do you welcome fall into your life? Share with us in the comments section!! Stay inspired!!
