Seasonal Self-Care

Navigating Autumn with a Full Tank

September 16, 2024  |  4 min read

Ally Veldhuisen

Ally Veldhuisen

We don’t all live in a constant state of overflow, but sometimes we pretend we do. We act as if we are always driving around with a full tank.

But let me ask you—do you stop by the gas station every morning to fill up your car? I know I don’t! I’m a “fill ‘er up and drive until the warning light comes on” kind of girl (to my husband’s horror) and frankly, I used to do the same thing to myself.

Here’s the thing: different seasons allow for different levels of “full.” Sometimes, we can only afford to partially fill our tank—both literally and metaphorically. And that’s okay. Self-care isn’t about maintaining a perpetually full tank, it’s about regular maintenance to keep us running smoothly. It’s an oil change, not a piston replacement.

Everyone has their own take on self-care, and it’s a topic frequently revisited. (Lauren wrote about it earlier this year, read her take here.)

Fall Self-Care Toolkit

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, here are some ways I plan to incorporate self-care into my routines this fall:

Nature Walks:

Embrace the crisp fall air because it’s invigorating for both lungs and soul.

  • Reconnect with an old friend on a familiar walk
  • Try a new trail with the family

Quiet Time:

Carve out moments free from distractions.

  • Wake up early to savor coffee while staring out the window.
  • Read a book without screens or notifications nearby.

Seasonal Activities:

Savor unique autumn joys.

  • Visit the apple orchard.
  • Navigate a corn maze.
  • Pick pumpkins at a local patch.

Cooking and Baking:

Indulge in fall flavors!

  • Use the stove and oven freely (cooler weather means a cozier house)!
  • Enjoy the scents filling your home.
  • Experiment with fall flavors: pumpkin, apple, cinnamon, chai… any of your favorites!

Cozy Clothes:

Embrace comfort and warmth.

  • Enjoy the gezellig feeling of wearing comfy clothes all day! (The sole reason fall is my favorite season.)
  • Did I mention soft blankets and ambient candles?

Mindful Screen Time:

As darkness lingers, be intentional with technology.

  • Resist the temptation to increase screen time.
  • Allocate that time to hobbies and personal growth instead.

It’s important to remember that self-care looks different for everyone. Your list for fall recharging might look completely different, and that’s great! 

No matter what’s on it, I would encourage you to write your own list of activities that will help you recharge during the fall season with intention. When you’re starting to run a little low, take a peek at your list and fit some activities into your week’s routine.

A Prayer for Autumn Self-Care

Loving Father,

As I walk through this autumn season, grant me peace to rest in your presence, wisdom to care for myself and others, and grace to share your blessings.

Amen

About the Author

Ally Veldhuisen

Ally Veldhuisen

Ally is the primary founder of For This House. She just finished renovating a cute, old house in small town Washington where she lives with her husband and young son. Ally is a teacher by trade, but also enjoys library cookbooks and watching Downton Abbey. Learn more about Ally