The temperature is dropping, the leaves are (slowly) changing colors, and sweaters and boots are beginning their arrival on campus. It’s finally starting to feel like Fall here in New Orleans, and everyone’s ready to celebrate this crisp and cozy time of year. While apple-cider donuts and pumpkin-spice lattes certainly capture everything that is fall, here is my list of my favorite healthy ways to embrace the season!
1. Get Moving, Outside!
We’re all used to the mundane gym atmosphere that is Reily. While Reily is usually my go-to place for exercise, the Fall is the perfect excuse to step outside. Running and walking outside is more enjoyable without the oppressive humidity and sun. Try exploring Audubon Park or running along St. Charles. Your run will be anything but boring with the vast amount of houses decked out in elaborate Halloween decorations. If running or walking isn’t your thing, you can still take enjoy the beautiful weather by doing a HIIT or interval workout outside. Try this one that can be done anywhere!
2. Chilly Weather = Cute Workout Clothes
When you start exercising outside, you need some light jackets and comfortable yoga pants to keep you warm. While LuLu Lemon may be your first choice, there are also some cheaper options out there. Since it’s warm the majority of the year here, you may not want to dish out a lot of money. Forever 21 offers a selection of fashionable, but light, pullovers at a good price. They also have a wide selection of yoga pants and capris. Target is another great option for light tops, with a variety of long-sleeve shirts that will keep you warm, but not too warm.
3. Visit a Farmer’s Market
On a windy Fall day, nothing is better than visiting your local farmer’s market, especially in the Fall. The seasonal Fall produce is abundant and here you can pick up the freshest, not to mention local, fruits and vegetables. At the Crescent City Farmer’s Market, there are also local vendors who cook Fall themed recipes and sell them! Farmer’s markets are the best places to buy healthy and affordable fall ingredients for all of your recipes.
4. Cook Up Some Fresh Fall Treats!
Now that you have an abundance of pumpkin, apples, squash, etc from the farmer’s market, there are tons of healthy fall recipes to indulge in. Some of my favorites include pumpkin pie oatmeal or spiced granola, but check out this awesome list for ideas from Greatist! Pinterest and Google can also provide you with a wide array of healthy options.