Embracing the season

As the air turns crisp and the leaves transform into vibrant hues, autumn invites us to slow down, nourish our bodies & embrace cosy rituals that support our wellbeing.

With cooler temperatures and shorter days, it’s the perfect time to reset & prioritise self-care. Here are some simple ways to nurture your mind, body & soul this autumn.

Autumn is Vata season in Ayurvedic terms – a time of transition that can bring out anxiety & agitation after the long hot summer months, often packed with social activity. This can leave us feeling overwhelmed & fatigued, so it’s time to create balance with earth rooted foods, breath work & hibernating practices.

Nourish with seasonal foods

Autumn brings an abundance of nutrient-rich foods that support immunity & overall health. Root vegetables are in season, as nature provides us with the necessities to help ground & balance mood, preparing for the cooler months of winter that follow.

Pumpkins, sweet potatoes, apples, pears & dark leafy greens are packed with vitamins & antioxidants to keep you feeling your best. Incorporate slow cooked foods such as soups, roasted veggies & herbal teas into your diet to stay cosy & nourished. Herbs & spices can help aid digestion, immunity & warm us from the inside.

As we look to richer comfort foods, it’s important to be mindful of our digestive health. Probiotics, increased water & digestive enzymes can help to break down heavier meals efficiently.

Boost immunity naturally

With cold & flu season around the corner, strengthening your immune system is key. Load up on vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits & berries, sip on bone broth & include gut-friendly probiotics like yoghurt & fermented foods. Staying hydrated & getting enough rest will also help your body fight off seasonal bugs. Increase vitamin C, zinc & elderberry in the lead up to winter.

Prioritise movement & outdoor time

Whether it’s a morning walk, going hiking or raking leaves in the backyard, moving your body in nature can boost mood, improve circulation & enhance overall well-being. It’s okay to slow down after the high energy summer months with yoga or gentle stretching to keep your body active.

Hydrate & protect your skin

Cool autumn air can leave skin feeling dry & sensitive. Swap lightweight summer moisturisers for richer, hydrating creams & don’t forget to continue using SPF, as UV rays are still present even on cloudy days. Incorporate nourishing ingredients like natural oils in your moisturisers to help maintain skin hydration. Also look at hydrating & skin soothing lip balms to keep chapped lips away. If you haven't tried Jojoba Oil, this is also a great way to balance natural oil production & hydrate your skin. Using a humidifier at home can also help combat dryness, keeping your skin soft & supple.

Embrace cosy rituals & self-care

Autumn is all about slowing down & finding comfort in simple moments. Light a candle, curl up with a good book, practice mindfulness through journaling or meditation. Creating a cosy atmosphere with warm blankets, soft lighting & herbal teas can help you unwind & de-stress.

Support your sleep cycle

As daylight fades earlier, it’s important to maintain a healthy sleep routine. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep, reduce screen time before bed & establish a calming nighttime routine—think collagen hot chocolates, a warm bath with Epsom salts, or gentle stretching. Good sleep supports immunity, mental clarity & overall wellness.

Stay connected & practice gratitude

The transition into autumn is a great time to nurture relationships & practice gratitude. Spend time with loved ones, enjoy home-cooked meals together & take moments to appreciate the beauty of the season. Gratitude journaling or simply acknowledging small joys can uplift your mindset & enhance emotional well-being.

Autumn is a season of transition, inviting us to slow down, reflect & care for ourselves in meaningful ways. By nourishing your body with seasonal foods, embracing movement, prioritising rest & self-care, you can step into the cooler months feeling balanced, energised & ready to thrive.