Seasonal rituals with Finola: Autumn
We are not necessarily going to feel the same way as we did in summer, but we can find different ways of operating and existing with the world at it’s current state. I wanted to write a piece about seasonal rituals to help you try and work with the darker half of the year…
Moon salutations by candlelight
This sounds fancy but actually can only take about 10 minutes, and has been making me feel another level of relaxed afterwards. I think it is very symbolic, as we transition into the darker months, and we literally see the dark sky and the moon more, to align with this and practice moon salutations.
These yoga practices are meant to relax and unwind the body, differing from sun salutations which are often encouraging us to wake up, get energised and welcome in the sun/ the day. I think we can learn something from nature at this time of year, about slowing down, resting, and conserving or being protective of our energy, and moon salutations definitely encourage this.
You can find lots of videos on YouTube, and to make it an extra special moment, try lighting some candles or incense and practicing in the evening to curate a mindful, cozy moment.
Taking time to look at nature’s changes
Nature of course changes a lot at this time of year, and sometimes it can feel like it all happens so quickly! I find it really lovely to try and observe these changes, appreciating how easily nature transitions from one moment to the next, one season to the next. Bringing nature into our homes can help with this too; conkers, acorns, pumpkins, or our favourite leaf. There are a few trees that I can see from my bedroom window, and often when the mornings can be so rushed, I sometimes like to take a moment to look out and see what the trees are doing today! If they have changed their colour or lost some of their leaves.
Reflection, looking inwards
After looking at nature and the outside world, now take some time to look inwards. I notice myself wanting to journal a lot more in autumn/ winter; it feels like the perfect time for observing our inner world a bit closer. Autumn especially can be a time for looking at what we want to let go of, thinking about transitions and what we no longer need, want to embody or hold on to.
Some journal prompts for your seasonal writing ritual:
- What in my life is not aligning with my values right now?
- Are there any thoughts, patterns or behaviours I need to let go of?
- How can I introduce more softness and rest into every day?
- What boundaries do I need to introduce or remember?
Hot drinks… and more hot drinks
There is nothing more cozy than making a delicious warming drink in your favourite mug, and making your daily hot drink into a little ritual can be a reminder to slow down for a second. My favourite drink at the moment is cacao- it is such a powerful drink not only because of all the physical benefits, but it is known to be heart-opening, and makes me feel very calm. I also like to drink peppermint tea in the evening, or order a chai latte if I visit a coffee shop.
When making or drinking these, it’s nice to try and be fully aware of what you are doing, noticing the scent and taste of the drink and using this moment to take a few deep breaths. To me, any opportunity to go a bit slower and to breathe a bit deeper is really worth it and makes me feel as if I am fully embracing this slower season.
I hope this post gives you some ideas on how to enjoy autumn by leaning into the season, and finding ways to work with it. We are all on our own paths and rest looks different to everyone- this time of year can be hard, so make sure to be kind to yourself and others.
If you decide to try my suggestions, or have any other ideas for seasonal rituals, I would love to hear about it on instagram @girlaboutsolo
Thanks for reading 🙂
By Finola Stowe
Image credit Finola Stowe & dreamstime
