Autumn Equinox kicks off the cooler months, as leaves slowly start to shift color, critters gather food, and the earth drifts closer toward its slumber. This time of year helps shift our mindset from the bright and lively energy of Summer, toward the introspective and creative energy of Fall.
It marks the halfway point between Summer and Winter, when the sun and moon are in perfect balance until next year’s Spring Equinox. Amid all the business this season brings, you’ve likely noticed days getting shorter and temperatures gradually starting to drop.
Whether you break out autumnal decor at the tail end of August, or wait until mid-October, the Fall season is beloved for its near-perfect temperatures, vivid array of colors, and endless wholesome activities.
But more than spooky decor or an excuse to indulge in seasonal treats, Autumn teaches us the importance of inner guidance and embracing change wholeheartedly. It’s a time filled with balance, gratitude, harvest, connection, and letting go. Another common symbol this time of year is fire: also popular around the Winter Solstice, light guides us through the dark and cold seasons, toward hope on the horizon.
It’s no coincidence that “light” is a common theme throughout the Bible, providing us with sustenance as we go throughout this life. Autumn is the perfect time to meditate on these themes, letting go and surrendering to God’s will in our lives, and trusting that things will unfold at precisely the right time.
So, what are some practical ways to seek wisdom and cultivate gratitude this season? Read on for 20 wholesome rituals to slow down, savor the present moment, and find light in the little things—plus 12 verses to meditate on throughout the upcoming months!
1. Go for a walk in nature
- This is one of the simplest ways to help ground your body and center your thoughts. It could be around the neighborhood, at a nearby park, hiking trail, or orchard. You could even take it a step further and research edible plants in your area to forage, or ways to incorporate nature in seasonal decor.
- Otherwise, try to simply be present in nature (that means off your phone, even to take photos!). Focus on your five senses—breathing in fresh air, the sound of leaves crunching underfoot, or the smell of autumn foliage.
- It might seem obvious to spell it out, but how often do we overlook the simple joys in life? Connecting with your senses in nature has way of calming overworked bodies and clearing even the most anxious mind. Communing with Creation centers us as humans, grounded in God’s spirit.
2. Try a tea ritual
- There’s no right or wrong way to do this, but here’s a basic format to follow…
- Set aside some time, pull out a seasonal mug or simply your favorite mug. Mindfully wait for water to boil, focusing on the sound of water instead of feeling rushed on to next thing in your day. Practice deep breathing while the tea brews, inhaling the scent of tea and feeling the steam against your skin. Dress the tea according to your preference, then settle into your favorite spot, indoors or outside (bonus if you’re able to be barefoot & ground with earth!) Feel the warmth of the mug against your hands, slowly sipping the tea and allowing it to linger on your tastebuds. Practice a small mindfulness exercise, such as bringing to mind 3 things you’re grateful for today, or observing the natural world around you or whatever items are in your surrounding environment.
- Some popular varieties of tea this time of year are chai, pumpkin spice, classic black, earl grey, or malty Irish breakfast!
3. Burn a Fall-scented candle
- This is a great activity to practice in combination with the tea ritual above, while reading a good book, or all on it’s own. You may already you have a go-to scent this time of year, such as pumpkin spice, apple, or cinnamon.
- You might even try creating your own signature scent! Candle pouring is a fun activity to do with loved ones, or a unique way to grow confidence in doing activities alone, to embrace the beauty of your own solitude. Tons of candle pour studios now offer in-store workshops and many also have kits to create at home for more of a cozy night in.
- Added bonus if their wax & essential oils are all natural!
Discover what “all natural” actually means in this introductory post on non-toxic living!
4. Practice yoga outdoors
- Have you ever tried yoga before? It’s grown so much in popularity, it may seem like a silly question, but you’d be surprised how many people have little to no personal experience with it!
- Yoga is a great way to compliment or branch out of your typical workout routine, and there are so many options to choose from. Whether you decide to attend an in-person class, go alone or with a friend, plan an outdoor session, or look up a video in the comfort of your own home, stretching your muscles and practicing mindful breathing are both beneficial ways to connect with mind, body, and spirit.
5. Visit an orchard
- Possibly the most universally adored activity for the autumn season! Between hay rides, corn mazes, pumpkin-themed activities, and farm animals, orchards offer so much to do this time of year. Do a quick search online to see what’s available in your area 🙂
- Orchards are the best place to find locally grown apples, peaches, corn, squash, pumpkins, or other seasonal produce. Many also offer raw honey, canned goods, or even fresh samples of select items. It’s a great way to support small businesses (many of them family-owned), get outdoors, connect with your senses, and help foster a sense of community.
- You could even try “food hopping” to nearby farm stands and orchards to pick up an array of fresh fruits and vegetables. Invite a friend or two and make a sweet day of it!
6. Create a Fall flower arrangement
- Stop by a local florist to splurge on a seasonal arrangement for your home—or even try your hand at creating your own! Trader Joe’s always seems to have lovely options, as well as local grocery stores. Even if it only lasts a week or so, fresh flowers can bring so much joy to everyday moments.
- Some popular choices are mums, sunflowers, zinnias, proteas, or coneflowers—plus greenery like eucalyptus, and filler such as status, baby’s breath, button mums, or whatever else catches your eye!
7. Cook homemade soup
- Ask most people and they’ll agree that homegrown + home cooked meals are some of the best. There’s just something about the taste, and even feel of the food and whole process to create it, that hits different!
- However, I realize that’s not always attainable in today’s world… So instead, at least opt to buy ingredients from a grocery store—or use fresh produce from a farm stand! Making it yourself means you know exactly what goes into the recipe vs (more often than not) processed soup from a can. It’s hard to beat the convenience of instant soup, so this is a good activity to plan on a weekend or less busy weekday, when have you more time available.
- Even if it takes a bit more planning, soup is super easy to reheat or even freeze for later, making the added work worth it. Comforting soups for this time of year are tomato bisque, roast veggie, squash, chili, or I’m sure you could find *just a few* more ideas on Pinterest 🙂
8. Spend the evening by firelight
- If possible, try to avoid using electricity for an evening. Have a fire or even light candles around the room instead. Notice when and how the sun gradually slips from the sky and fall in tune with its gentle, unhurried pace.
- It’s a simple way to slow down and appreciate the subtle yet beautiful phases of light we often brush past each day in the business of life. Be present by taking a few moments to photograph the sunset or shadows that are cast in your home, write poetry or journal what’s on your heart, sing, dance, pray, or whatever else comes to mind.
9. Donate clothing
- Gather up any of your gently used sweaters, coats, scarves, hats, or gloves, and donate them to a local charity. So many of us have clothes we never wear, so why not give them a new purpose by sharing with someone in need.
- It’s very common to see coat drives closer to winter, but planning ahead is useful so others have access to it before cooler weather rolls around. You could even plan your own drive, or a small get-together with family and friends to collect winter wear and make a larger donation to help more people.
10. Go thrift shopping
- Alternatively, be on the other end of giving something a second life. Checkout any antique stores, thrift shops, art festivals, or flea markets in your area—you never know what you might find or feel inspired to repurpose!
11. Make a simmer pot
- Gather the following ingredients and add to a large pot:
- 2 red apples, sliced
- 1 orange peel (or zest)
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 2 bay leaves
- Several star anise or cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Fill the pot with enough water to completely cover the ingredients. Simmer over low heat and enjoy the sweet seasonal scent! This is also a perfect thing to make if you have any apples that are a little past their prime!
12. Decorate for the season
- Looking to refresh your Autumn decor, but want to keep it simple and under budget? Checkout The Beacon Road’s original art prints over on Etsy! Two digital bundles are available for instant download, so you can easily print off whatever size you need and create an autumnal gallery wall in just minutes. (Also don’t miss these Fall-inspired stickers!)
13. Learn a new skill
- Is there anything you’ve always wanted to try, but have been too scared or too busy to learn? Well there’s no time like the present! Autumn is a great time to pick up a new skill or hobby to practice throughout the longer months ahead. Depending on the activity, it will give you something to do on cool winter evenings or instead of watching TV.
- Some ideas: play an instrument, speak a language, learn a certain painting style, memorize Scripture, master a new recipe, how to knit or crochet.
14. Peruse a local bookstore
- This is another great way to support smaller businesses and independent sellers over huge national chains. Stop in a local bookstore to see what they have available—you might just stumble upon a new read for chilly evenings by the fire!
- Feel free to peruse our Digital Bookshelf for recommended titles. You also have the option to buy online while at the same time supporting your local bookstore through Bookshop! Learn more HERE ➡️
15. Learn how to use prayer beads
- If you’re intrigued by meditation but don’t know where to start or what sources to trust, prayer beads are a solid place to begin. The rosary holds a special place in my heart, so encourage anyone to give it a chance, even if it’s only a single decade.
- Regardless of your religious background, learning how to pray the rosary can be a unique way to grow in your spiritual life. Worst case, you learn something you didn’t know before; best case, you experience more peace in your day and may even discover you have a special affinity with Mary!
- If this prayer form interests you, I encourage you to read the book “The Way of the Rose” by Clark Strand and Perdita Finn. It explores Mother Mary throughout different cultures, and her sacred connection to the natural world, feminine wisdom, and healing rhythms found in the rosary. Check it out HERE ➡️
16. Send gratitude mail
- When was the last time you received *actual* mail that wasn’t an ad or organization asking for money? Snail mail is almost a lost art nowadays, which makes receiving cards and letters even more exciting!
- Spend a few moments writing letters, greeting cards, or even postcards to loved ones in your life. So often, it’s easy to take the people who are closest to us for granted; sending a small message of thanks or encouragement is a simple way to let people know they’re cared for and you appreciate their presence in your life.
17. Enjoy a seasonal treat
- Pumpkin and apple baked goods seem to be universally loved, or you could try less common (but equally delicious!) flavors such as banana, squash, carrot, chai or warming spices.
- Pickup treats from a local bakery or try baking some yourself as another fun activity to be present and enjoy the process, even if it’s a little messy. It’s a great thing to share with friends and family—or even send it with your gratitude mail for an extra sweet surprise!
18. Make DIY decor
- Design a silly or spooky face for a traditional jack-o-lantern; you could also paint pumpkins instead (real or fake) for a slightly less-messy craft. Or cut out bat shapes from black paper and tack to the wall for super simple decor that works in any room.
- Another fun and versatile idea is dehydrated orange slices—they’re an ideal decoration since they fit well with Autumn, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and even Christmas decor! Plus they smell so good 🙂 Get step-by-step instructions for dehydrating your own oranges in this DIY Holiday Decor post!
Bible Verses Inspired by GRATITUDE
- Be still, and know that I am God. (Psalm. 46:10)
- Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
- There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
- One handful of peace and quiet is better than two handfuls of hard work and of trying to catch the wind. (Ecclesiastes 4:6)
- A person’s wisdom brightens their face and changes its hard appearance. (Ecclesiastes 8:1)
- The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. (Lamentations 3:25-26)
- Come with Me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest. (Mark 6:31)
- Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)
- I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through Him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:12-13)
- Let the message of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. (Colossians 3:16)
- Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18)
- If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:5)
≫ What helps you stay grounded throughout seasons of change? How can you encourage someone else going through a similar experience?
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