My favorite thing about fall is that it’s the perfect time to schedule mandatory slow-down days. Everyone thinks summer is the time to sit around all day and do nothing (and I mean, it totally can be), but something about the cooler, crisp days of fall and the shorter days just gives off those cozy, pull-on-a-sweater-and-cuddle type vibes. Fall is the time to slow down, reflect, and take extra good care of your mental health. Whether you’re an apple-picking, 5a.m.-hiking kind of gal, or you’re a binge-reading-and-hot-tea type of gal, there are countless opportunities to nurture your mind, body, and soul. After you read this post, you’ll have 31 fall wellness tips and ideas to take care of your emotional well-being this autumn that will feel fun, light-hearted, and refreshing.
So grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s dive in!
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31 fall wellness tips for a balanced autumn
1. Start a gratitude journal
I’m 110% positive that you’re at least slightly sick of everybody telling you to start a gratitude journal. (Shoutout to my bestie who literally told me exactly this.)
It’s cool though. Cause it’s just mY oPINION (please tell me you know the meme I’m referencing.)
Really though, starting a gratitude journal can be such a great way to capture the simple joys of the season.
Don’t overcomplicate it, and don’t force yourself to take a ton of time on it either.
Just start by writing down three things you’re grateful for each day. This can be a powerful way to shift your focus to the positive.
That said, if a gratitude journal doesn’t work for you, that’s okay! Everybody has different things that work for them.
2. Take lots of nature walks
I know when it gets cold outside, it’s easy to want to rush inside and get warm.
But this fall, I challenge you to brave the cold and embrace the outdoors. Breathe the crisp air, watch the golden leaves fall from the trees, wrap a cute scarf around your neck, and just enjoy being in this season.
3. Cozy up with a good book
Fiction or non-fiction, it don’t matter. Even if you’re not someone who typically loves reading a physical book, try playing an audio book while you commute or do your usual chores around the house.
Last year, I read For the Wolf, which was basically a loose modern re-telling of Little Red Riding Hood, and I loved the fall, woodsy vibes it gave off.
You don’t have to read a fall-themed book, but if you’re practicing self care in the fall then why not get in the spirit of things?
4. Practice mindful breathing
Stop. Take a deep, deep breath of the crisp fall air and let the oxygen fill your lungs until it poofs your tummy out. (This is how you actually take a proper breath.)
A good cue is to imagine you’re blowing up a balloon in your belly. We often take shallow breaths without realizing it, but a deep, proper breath can be a great tool to help reduce stress.
Learn some breathing techniques and use them throughout your day to reduce anxiety or stress.
5. Prioritize the relationships that matter to you
It’s easy to get swept up in everyone else’s plans, but make time for your favorite people too.
By prioritizing quality time with your loved ones, you’ll not only have more fun but you’ll find yourself feeling more energized and fulfilled than if you spent all your time trying to make everybody else happy.
6. Create a fall-themed self-care kit
Fill a basket with your favorite fall essentials—think cozy socks, scented candles, herbal teas, and nourishing skincare products.
Now you have a go-to self care kit for the days when you just need a little “me time.”
Side note: This also makes a great gift for friends who have a birthday during the colder months!
7. Say “no” when you need to
Fall feels like one of the busiest seasons – it comes right after the easy-going pace of summer, and suddenly our calendar is full of activities and meetings again.
To practice wellness during the fall, make sure you don’t overbook yourself. Don’t say yes to every favor people ask of you, learn to delegate, and don’t make promises you can’t keep (or don’t want to keep).
This will help make sure you don’t get overly stressed or drained, and you’ll have a bit more time to do the things that matter most to you.
8. Declutter your space
Nothing stresses me out more than a messy room.
(Okay, fine – Spiders. Spiders stress me out more than a messy room.)
Regardless, as you prepare for the cooler months, take some time to declutter your home.
A clean, organized space can help you stay focused and reduce anxiety. Plus, it creates more space for cute fall decorations.
9. Embrace hygge
Hygge, the Danish concept of coziness, is perfect for fall. Light candles, drape soft blankets over couches and armchairs, switch your white lights to warmer, softer toned light bulbs, and create a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you feel at home.
Making your room or home into a happy space is one of my favorite fall wellness tips because it’s easy to do and automatically makes your time at home feel more relaxing.
10. Try new recipes
You and I both know your Pinterest recipe boards are bursting at the seams with new recipes you haven’t tried yet. I know because same.
This season, try out a new fall recipe, whether it’s a hearty soup, a pumpkin-spiced treat, or a new twist on your favorite comfort food.
Cooking can be a therapeutic way to unwind and stay focused on creating something with your hands. It’s an underrated way to take care of your mental health this fall that has the big bonus of tasting delicious.
11. Move your body in a way that feels good for you
I know it can be easy to just cocoon yourself in a blanket instead of working out in the fall, but trust me – you’ll feel better overall if you can incorporate daily movement in your schedule.
Try gentle yoga or pilates to keep your body and mind balanced. Going for runs, bike riding, or even just doing HIIT workouts in the comfort of your home are all good ways to keep your blood pumping and your energy up.
12. Change your routine to fit your needs
What worked for you in the summer might not necessarily work for you in the fall.
Maybe you used to go for early morning runs in the summer, but now you feel the need for a slower morning routine. Swap your early AM runs for morning journaling and a homemade latte to enjoy your wake up time, and push your runs to the evening if you can.
Or maybe you feel the need for a little extra sleep during the fall than you did in the summer.
Listen to your body, pay attention to what’s working in your schedule and what isn’t. Don’t be afraid to switch things up if you need to.
13. Make time for morning meditation
One of my favorite fall wellness tips is to simply slow down in the mornings and take time for meditations.
This is a simple way to set yourself up for success and inner peace throughout your day.
As the mornings get darker, begin your day with a morning routine and meditation to help you set a positive tone for the day ahead.
There are different ways to meditate, so pick the one that speaks most to you. Some people like to empty their minds, close their eyes, and focus on their breath.
Others like to use guided meditations like the Calm app.
You can even use scripture or Bible verses to meditate by focusing on a specific verse, or turning the verse into a prayer/conversation with God during your quiet time.
14. Schedule a digital detox
Set aside time each week to unplug from technology. Trust me, this is the not-so-secret weapon you need to protect your mental health this fall.
Use this time to connect with yourself, nature, or loved ones without the distractions of screens.
15. Sip on herbal teas for an extra dose of calmness
Swap your afternoon coffee for a calming herbal tea. Ingredients like chamomile, peppermint, or cinnamon can help soothe your mind and body.
Or, if you’re like me and absolutely refuse to give up your afternoon coffee, just switch to herbal tea in the early evening.
You can also read my post about my 5 favorite herbal teas to help you sleep better at night.
16. Create a vision board
To put a fun spin on taking care of your mental health this fall, get creative with your goals and create a vision board for the coming months. I like to include images and words that represent my goals, dreams, and desires.
You can also use fall quotes, snag photos from Pinterest for your personal use, and use a color palette that invokes the aesthetic or vibe you want for your fall season.
I know it sounds trivial, but a vision board is fun, creative, and totally lets you get into the fall spirit and is such an underrated fall wellness tip.
17. Volunteer in your community
With the holiday season approaching, it’s the perfect time to help others who might not have as much.
One of the most underrated wellness tips for fall (or any other season) is simply shifting your focus from your own problems to serving others.
You can give back by volunteering for a local cause – anything from handing out hot coffee to those living out in the cold to helping your local community groups host fundraisers or events can be such a blessing.
Besides the benefit of helping others, these kinds of activities can also provide a sense of purpose and connection, which in turn boosts your mental health.
18. Change up the scenery
I know we can’t always pack up and leave town, but I really do believe in the power of a change in the scenery. It’s good for your creativity, and it’s a simple way to improve your mood.
When you see a new place, your brain gets excited about new possibilities. It feels more motivated and creative, which just makes you feel more hopeful about life overall.
So instead of walking along the same route you usually do, try taking the long (scenic) route.
Plan a short trip to a nearby town or even a nature spot. A day trip to the mountains or the beach (yes, even in the fall) might be just what you need to boost your spirits.
Even something as simple as trying a different coffee shop can spark that change in your brain.
19. Practice gratitude outdoors
While on a nature walk, take a moment to express gratitude for the beauty around you. Notice the bushy-tailed squirrels, the leaves swirling as they fall, the scent of fresh pine needles, the way the breeze feels against your skin…
This sounds simple, but it’s an effective way to feel more connected to the earth while being present in the moment.
Prioritizing your wellness and emotional well-being might look different from season to season, but spending time in nature and being grateful for the life you’re living is always excellent for your mental health.
20. Set seasonal intentions
Don’t worry about your 5-year plan right now.
(Crap, I’m just realizing I don’t even have one of those.)
Instead, reflect on what you want to achieve or focus on this fall, or before the end of the year.
Setting seasonal intentions can help you stay aligned with your goals and values, without getting distracted by all the busy-ness that the holidays bring.
Some season intentions might be…
- This fall, I will slow down and savor every beautiful moment without rushing.
- I will prioritize my health this season by making nourishing and delicious meals, getting quality sleep, and moving my body in ways that makes me feel good.
- During this season, I will prioritize my relationships with the people who matter most to me by scheduling intentional time to connect with them.
21. Let yourself get crafty
One of my favorite fall wellness tips is to get creative with your hands.
Peruse some fun DIY crafts on Pinterest and try a fall-themed craft project, like knitting a scarf, painting pumpkins, or making a wreath.
Creative activities can be a great way to relax and express yourself. Plus, whatever you make will look real cute sitting around your home.
22. Make time for your loved ones and besties
Sometimes, the colder weather, gray days, and shorter daylight hours can make us feel isolated or lonely.
While it’s good to be alone sometimes, take care of your wellness and mental health this fall by spending intentional time with friends and family.
It’s the perfect time to surround yourself with your favorite people or host something fun.
Plan a movie night, game night, or simply enjoy a cozy evening together with Hallmark re-runs and homemade drinks.
23. Take hot baths and pamper yourself
Adding a hot bath to your wellness routine might just become your new favorite thing.
Run a bath, add in Epsom salts and essential oils, light a few candles, and play some soft music (or do what I like to do and set your laptop on the counter with Gossip Girl on).
It’s a wonderful way to relax your muscles and calm your mind after a long day.
Side note: Some essential oils can irritate the skin, like cinnamon, spearmint, or clove. Make sure you do a bit of research before adding just any essential oils to your bath routine!
24. Listen to calming music that puts you in the autumn spirit
Create a fall playlist filled with calming music. On my fall playlists, I like to add a mix of indie, folk, and sometimes even jazz. All of these genres make me feel like I’m sitting in a cozy cafe on a rainy day, drinking the perfect flat white.
You can even make different fall playlists to fit your mood – a rainy day playlist, a moody playlist, an upbeat indie playlist – whatever you want to feel calm, happy, and autumn-y.
Listen to your favorite fall playlist while you relax at home, drive, go for a walk, or work from your laptop.
25. Write letters to loved ones
Exchanging funny memes over texts and group chats is always fun, but nothing beats an old-timey expression of love.
Get out some paper, pens, gel pens, even old photos or Polaroids, and get to writing.
You can slip those old photos into the letter too, to share some memories with those you love.
Writing a heartfelt letter not only brightens their day but also reminds yourself of all you have to be grateful for.
There are people in this world who have no one, who are lonely, and would do anything to have the family and loved ones that we take for granted.
Tell someone you love them, that you miss them, and catch them up on what’s been going on in your life.
26. Practice mindful eating
Try out this fall wellness tip by simply savoring the flavors of fall and eating mindfully.
Pay attention to the tastes, textures, and aromas of your food, and enjoy every bite.
Remember to slow down, immerse yourself in the experience like frickin Ratatouille eating a bite of cheese and apple, and put your phone down to practice joyful eating.
27. Slip mood-boosting adaptogens into your usual diet
If you haven’t yet introduced adaptogens into your diet, the fall is a great time to start.
Adaptogens are natural substances like mushrooms, herbs, and roots that help your body adapt to stress, anxiety, and fatigue – which, let’s face it, we all deal with from time to time.
But adaptogens don’t just help you manage stress, they also tend to have mood-boosting properties, too.
Turmeric, tulsi, ashwaganda, ginseng, reishi, and rhodiola rosea are all adaptogens that can help you maintain a stable mood and deal with the stress of the fall season.
You can shop for adaptogens at your local healthy grocery store, or buy supplements online. They’re often sold by themselves in a pill or powder form, but there are tons of fun brands that make delicious adaptogenic drinks and powders too!
Moon Juice, Ritual, and Apothekary are some popular brands that are worth checking out.
28. Get as much direct sunlight as you can (or get a sun lamp)
This fall wellness tip is all about combatting SAD (Seasonal Affective Depression) before we get too swept up in it.
SAD happens when the shorter daylight hours and reduced sunlight of the fall/winter months result in less serotonin in your body.
Serotonin is a chemical messenger that helps regulate your mood, and without the ideal amount of it, you can feel depressed, moody, and hopeless.
To combat SAD, start your day with natural, direct sunlight if possible.
Throughout the day, make sure you step outside to get natural light and feel the sun on your skin. If you work in an office, take your breaks outside to make sure you get that direct sunlight.
That said, I know a lot of places and circumstances can really limit your access to sunlight.
In that case, try out a sun lamp to help regulate your body’s melatonin (to help your wake-sleep cycle) and serotonin. This is especially ideal if you don’t live somewhere with a lot of sun or your work hours keep you inside.
29. Reflect on your accomplishments
Fall often catches us off-guard. Summer feels like it’ll last forever, and by the time it’s over we can find ourselves shocked that the year is already halfway over.
So take time to reflect on what you’ve achieved this year – and be proud of it!
Acknowledging your successes will boost your confidence and motivate you to keep moving forward.
30. Easy does it on the alcohol
A huge part of maintaining your wellness and mental health during the fall is to get good sleep, maintain a stable mood, and learn to rely on your own strength when dealing with stress.
Too much alcohol can screw with your sleep schedule, making your sleep lighter and less restful for your body.
Plus, alcohol is a depressant, so if you’re already struggling to stay joyful during the fall, adding in alcohol probably won’t serve you.
Try swapping your evening glass of wine or nightcap with a different relaxation technique – reading, yoga, a cup of kava tea, or a hot bath can all help you relax without the negative side effects of drinking.
Remember: Sometimes, self care is creating boundaries with yourself to better take care of your mental and physical health.
31. Embrace the art of doing nothing
Finally, give yourself permission to do nothing. Not all wellness tips (fall or otherwise) need to include physical activities like hikes or yoga, and not everything needs to be a creative venture like baking the perfect apple crumble.
Fall is a season of rest and renewal, so allow yourself to simply be, without guilt or pressure.
After all, it’s your wellness journey. You get to take control and do the things that make you feel good.
Conclusion to 31 fall wellness tips
Okay my friend, I hope this post has inspired your fall wellness routine and given you plenty of tips to incorporate for your best, happiest, and healthiest autumn yet.
Not all of these ideas may resonate with you, and like I always say, that’s totally okay because different things work for different people
Take what resonates and leave the rest!
The main takeaway here is to embrace the season, savor the moments, and remember that self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity.
By prioritizing your mental well-being, you’ll find yourself more grounded, peaceful, and ready to enjoy all the beauty that fall has to offer.
Sending you love and hugs this fall, friend.
xo Sav
