Now that the autumn months have arrived, many of us may find that our mood begins to dip as the temperature drops. Can you relate?
It’s very common to feel less than fully energised at this time of year, but let’s not forget that autumn is a special transition. The leaves change and begin to crisp, evenings feel cosy, we can bring out the chunky boots and bobble hats. Although the shift in temperature can be frustrating (especially after a minimal summer!), there are plenty of ways to keep a spring in your step by adding in some seasonal luxuries to your routines.
If you’re feeling a little off, let these ideas get you back to feeling your best.
10 everyday luxuries to give your mood a boost this season
Autumnal mocktails
Enjoying a well crafted cocktail is a luxury that doesn’t have to be for weekends only. The low- to no-ABV drinks market is bursting with impressive blends that taste just like the real thing, so you can indulge in a delicious cocktail any day of the week without the worry of a foggy mind the next day.
If you’ve got friends or loved ones around, light your Family Candle in the centre of the room to waft a delicious mix of lavender, ylang ylang and palmarosa through your home while you whip up a Negroni Rosa by La Maison Wellness. It uses a 0% Martini for that distinctive vermouth flavour and sounds sublime.
Grab your best glassware, sit back and relax.
Nature walks
Perhaps the most wonderful thing about this season is the vibrancy of the leaves outdoors. As the nights draw in faster, don’t forget to give yourself time to spend outside to make the most of the beauty and sunlight. If after work is too late, go for a stroll on your lunch break or make plans for an extra long walk at the weekend.
To make your trip extra luxurious, bring along a flask of your favourite hot drink and pick up a pastry (or two!) from a local bakery on your way.
Movie nights with a friend
When was the last time you enjoyed a movie at home with a friend? Recreate the sleepover vibes from your teen years and sit back to watch a classic (Notting Hill anyone?), nestled into your favourite blankets.
Up the luxury by popping your own popcorn and flavouring it with something extra indulgent, like this Cinnamon Maple Caramel Popcorn from Cookie and Kate.
Dry brush your skin
As the weather gets cooler, boost your circulation by dry brushing before each shower. Using circular motions starting from your feet and working your way up, you’ll gently exfoliate the skin, leaving it feeling smooth and plump.
This form of Ayurvedic medicine is not only soothing, but can help eradicate toxins in the body and amp up your lymphatic system — the thing that helps fight off infections.
Give your mani an autumnal update
Autumn colours are hard to beat. Deep crimsons, pumpkin oranges and muted browns are all perfect for this time of year, so give your nails some TLC with a fresh new shade.
We love Teal we meet again from Peta-certified Nailberry, formulated with oxygen to keep your nails healthy. Or this deep burgundy, Devore, from M&S, with added argan oil and vitamin E. For an extra chic, modern look, go for a classic clear manicure and use your autumnal shade just across the tip, like this
Candle lit bubble baths
Colder weather outdoors? That just means hotter, longer baths indoors! As the evening sets in, grab your favourite book and pour plenty of bubble bath into the tub. Add some epsom salts to soothe your muscles and light our Peace Candle so you can completely unwind.
It’s unique blend of mandarin, ho wood and verbena will help you relax while uplifting you emotionally. Bye bye stress, hello luxury.
Watch the sunset
With the sun disappearing much earlier now, watching the sunset should be a part of your weekly routine. Believe it or not, watching a sunset has benefits for your psychological health, helping to reduce stress and enhance life satisfaction.
Not only that, but taking time out to pause and watch the vibrant colours gives you time to reflect. Why not grab a journal and start a gratitude list like we spoke about in this post?
Experiment with seasonal cooking
Learning to cook with ingredients that are in season is not only better for the planet, but can be better for your health, too. When produce is picked and packed locally, it retains more nutrients compared to those picked before their peak and shipped across the globe.
Head to your local farmer’s market to browse what’s on offer, and test out some new recipes that are warming, comforting, and a joy to eat. We love Soup Broth Bead by Rachel Allen if you need some inspiration!
Switch up your movement routine
Summer days may have been ideal for long evening runs, but as the evenings get darker, changing things up can be necessary.
Try something new like a pilates session once a week, or find a yoga flow that leaves you feeling calm and energised. To make your movement feel like a luxury retreat, spritz the air with our Clarity Room Mist before you roll out your mat. Its punchy grapefruit oil will give your happy hormones a boost!
Take an autumn mini-break
Summer may be over, but that doesn’t mean that holidaying needs to be too! Book yourself a weekend away, or a ‘workation’ somewhere new, surrounded by nature.
A stay in a Hobbit Hideaway deep in the Scottish Highlands? A castle in the Cotswolds? How about a yurt in The Bridge of Earn? Whatever you fancy, a trip away for a few days can be just the ticket to feeling like the very best version of you.
Which of these will you try? Come and tell us by tagging us @HalyconNaturalsUK!