Autumn, a season of gatherings and warmth Estimated reading time: 5 minutesAs the evenings begin to darken earlier and the days become colder, the run-up to autumn begins. This is a wonderful time of year to embrace the leaves changing colours, campfires, and warm blankets, to enjoy the fresh, crisp feeling of a walk on a blustery day. This is a time of slowing down and developing a slower pace of life and a time for reflection when we begin looking back on the year and plan for the coming months.This is the time of year when we prepare for the advancing winter, just like the birds that fly south and the squirrels that begin gathering their nuts. Small animals look for piles of warm leaves and logs to make their winter home, and we find ourselves moving in time with nature. For many of us, our schedules change as the days become shorter. We spend less time outdoors, and our circadian rhythms change. Wearing warmer clothing and staying warm becomes a priority.Embrace the comfort of autumnSo, let’s embrace autumn with all its colour and enjoy its many changes. Why not grab that soft blanket, a book you’ve been waiting to read and settle into a comfy chair with a luxurious hot chocolate? At the same time, allow yourself some self-love. There are many hot chocolate recipes out there, but our favourite for a self-indulgent treat is this one:(Click on the picture below to print)Although there are so many ways to embrace autumn. From cosying up in your home to getting out in nature. Here are just a few ideas for enjoying the season in all its glory:Journey sticks and outdoor adventuresBegin by planning a brisk autumn walk or hike. Soak in the wide variety of colours that come with this new season. And feel the crisp air on your skin. Remember to pack a picnic. A warm flask of soup and fresh crusty bread is ideal for this time of year. Or, try a flask of mulled apple juice and some warm pastries.Carry a camera with you and take some photos of the transforming landscape. Look out for different seed pods and animals readying themselves for winter. And finally, if there are young children with you or you want to have a go yourself, make a journey stick.Making a journey stick is fun and straightforward. You will, however, need to take some coloured wool or string with you on your journey. Firstly find a stick that you like. Then wind your yarn or string around the stick from top to bottom, crisscrossing it and securing it at both ends. Finally, as you enjoy your hike, collect leaves, feathers, and anything else to poke into the string. You are filling your stick with treasures and memories from your walk.Campfires and gatheringsAutumn is ideal for gathering friends and family around a campfire and enjoying quality time together. Start with arranging some seating around your campfire. Put a warm blanket on each seat for people to wrap up in. And talk, laugh, tell stories, and catch up with one another while enjoying the company of loved ones. To enhance the occasion, add some campfire snacks and drinks. Here are a few of our favourites:Campfire toasted marshmallows.Smores.Shortbread biscuits topped with lemon curd and a campfire-toasted marshmallow.Campfire toasted pineapple chunks with cinnamon or maple syrup.Bannock on a stick.Jacket potatoes cooked in tinfoil in the campfire.Mulled apple juice.Hot chocolate.Crystals for autumn and the equinoxThe autumn equinox symbolizes new beginnings and endings. It is a magical time of year when day and night are of equal length. Traditionally this was the time that farmers bought in the harvest. Many festivities and rituals take place during the equinox. Such as pagans celebrating Mabon, Christians celebrating Michaelmas, Buddhists celebrating Higan, etc. With all these celebrations, crystals can bring balance and help with focus and perspective. Here are a few of our favourite crystals for this time of year:Moonstone – a stone for new beginnings and inner strength. This stone brings balance by stabilizing emotions.Sunstone – clears and energizes all of the chakras bringing balance. It also brings self-empowerment, helping with decision-making.Carnelian – is a good all-around healer, bringing harmony to the body and mind. While also giving an energy boost.Stilbite – helps to quieten a busy mind. At the same time, allowing you to see your life purpose.Moss agate – removes blockages and brings balance. As well as improving focus and attracting abundance.So, as you can see, there are so many wonderful things to do at this time of year. Visit an orchard to gather some apples, find a pumpkin farm, and make a warming soup for an afternoon. Or try any of the suggestions above. Whatever you decide this autumn, remember to enjoy it!Why not look at our blog for more information, hints and tips? Such as this guide on autumn self-care. And please remember to tag us @surrender_to_happiness on Instagram with all your autumn adventures; we love to see you enjoying our ever-changing world. Finally, for ways to celebrate Mabon, click here, and for how to have a healthy Halloween, check out our blog here.DisclaimerSpread the love