Spooky season is among us, and although it is my favorite time of year, it can also be the most stressful. It is important to remember to take care of yourself! After all, your mental health is more important! It is very crucial to find some time for yourself in between October’s busy schedule. Below are 8 of my favorite ways to provide self-care!
1. Find your favorite fall drink! (And don’t feel guilty about it!)
For me, it’s the pumpkin chai latte, but there are so many other fall drinks out there to get you in the spirit. Find something that makes you smile, provides some warmth, and a little less stress. Most of all, don’t feel bad about it. Enjoy the dang sweetness; you deserve it!
2. Fall Scents
Yes, yes, the irresistible smell of pumpkin spice. But no, really, studies show that certain scents can enhance your mood. Go out and buy and buy a cheap candle (they are a dollar at the dollar store!). If you aren’t a big candle fan (Me), I highly recommend essential oils. There are many fantastic fall scents, and you can even get creative and use different oils to create your own. Here is a website that gives you some ideas: https://helloglow.co/5-essential-oil-blends-for-fall/
3. Journaling
Hear me out, I know this sounds clichè, but the fall season is one of the best times to sit down and reflect. The year is coming to a close, and it’s a chance to find joy in the simple things. I highly recommend creating a journal specifically for gratitude. Each day write something you are grateful for. It can be something as simple as being alive. You can also do this snuggled beneath a warm blanket, which leads me to my next self-care tip.
4. Find Warmth
Whether this is under a big blanket or a crackling fire, find a place that provides you with warmth and comfort. I have a big wool blanket that I bring out just for this purpose. It can be a handy tool with that crunch time studying stress!
5. Take A Nature Walk
Get moving! Our bodies are meant for it! Go for a walk or a run. It is the perfect de-stressor, and Fall is the best time to do so. I like the way the breeze hits my face, and the feeling of the leaves crunching beneath my feet. It’s a time for self-reflection, and a perfect way to spend a short study break. Oh and it’s also a way to get in exercise!
6. Curl up with a Good Book
Get out of your head with a book. Grab your blanket, and that pumpkin spice latte, and curl up in your favorite reading spot. I am currently reading Carry On by Rainbow Rowell.
7. Watch A Movie or TV Show
For goodness sake, it’s spooky season! Grab a friend, some snacks, and watch some of your favorite Halloween hits. Also, try going to a drive-in movie theater, it brings more of that fall vibe and spooky spirit to the atmosphere!
8. Wear Comfy Clothes
This is probably my favorite on the list. Fall is an excuse for oversized sweaters, flannels, and your favorite pair of leggings. Being comfortable is vital for de-stressing, and it’s easy and cute; and if you want to find your inner VSCO girl grab your hydro flask, scrunchies, and converse, and you’re good to go!
These are just a few of my absolute favorite ways to take care of myself during the fall season. I know school can be stressful, but remember that your mental health is essential, make yourself a priority. So when life seems to a little too chaotic, try one or multiple of these things, I promise you it will make your spooky season, a lot better!