Fall is upon us, and it is without a doubt my favourite season. The stunning colours, the ever-so-slight chill in the air that makes holding a warm mug extra satisfying, and of course, all things Halloween - I couldn’t ask for anything more.
Whether you’re a fall-aholic like me or you’re still mourning the days of summer, here are a few tips to help you make the most of this pumpkin-spiced season.
Prioritize your health
Fall has a natural way of slowing things down, and its effects on people are no different! Take time to check in with yourself and be cautious of burn out. Treat yourself to slower mornings and earlier bedtimes if possible, and boost your immune system by drinking lots of water. Remember to get your flu shot and wash your hands even more frequently as we head into cold and flu season.
Make your pumpkins last longer
Nothing screams fall like a pumpkin on the front porch, but that makes it even sadder when they start to rot and shrivel. To extend the life of your pumpkins this year, give them a nice vinegar bath before taking them outside. Mix one part vinegar with 10 parts water for a quick soak. Please do not use bleach - this suggestion is spreading rapidly on social media, but pumpkins are a tempting treat to local wildlife who can’t smell the poison. Although you might not love the idea of critters snacking on your décor, it’s much better to share the love this season than put wildlife at risk.
Find things to look forward to
Although fall is a favourite for many of us, it can also bring about a sense of sadness. Winter is just around the corner and we know it will bring challenges of its own. To stay positive, it’s important to have things to look forward to. Whether it’s something as small as a weekly coffee date with a friend, or a cozy movie marathon, make an effort to schedule time for things that bring you joy over the coming months.
Bring the smell of fall inside
One of the things I love most about fall are all of the great scent combinations. If you want to have your house smelling like fall all day long without keeping an eye on candles, here’s a quick flame-free fix. In a pot of simmering water on the stove, add a handful of cinnamon sticks, a few tablespoons of whole cloves, the peel of an orange or two, and a couple of bay leaves. After a few minutes, you’ll have the most wonderful smelling concoction that will flow through your home long after you turn off the burner.
I hope these tips help you fall in love with fall even more this year!
Jill Ellsworth is a writer and communications specialist who lives in Dominion, N.S. Her column appears biweekly across the Saltwire Network. She can be reached at [email protected].
