Fall is upon us, and you know what that means: cooler (but not too cold) temps, apple and pumpkin everything, fall foliage showing off, and so many excuses to cancel your plans and lounge in your leggings, preferably with a fall-scented candle going. It's time to embrace all that autumn has to offer before the rush of the holiday season and before it gets too cold that you're in hibernation mode until spring. Need some ideas for your to-do list? We have some right here.
If you need permission to go overboard with pumpkin, butternut squash, apples, and brussels sprouts, well, here it is. Enjoy nature's bounty—bonus points because it can be so good for you and it's just so damn delicious. If you have a farmers market near you, head over there to stock up on fall produce. It's a guaranteed way to make sure you're getting everything super fresh.
2. Make a Fall Latte
It's okay—it doesn't have to be pumpkin spice. (Personal disclaimer: I've never been on the PSL train anyway.) What about a golden latte, chai tea, or something maple-flavored?
3. Preserve Something to Enjoy for Winter
Speaking of those fall fruits, why not preserve some of them to eat later on? You can thank yourself in winter when you're enjoying an autumnal jam with your cheese board. The OG mason-jar brand Ball has some helpful tips for canning if you're getting started.
Or if you prefer savory dishes, might we suggest a soup or casserole? The bottom line is fall is a great time to get in the kitchen. (Yes, even if you're a novice cook.) Your friends will be impressed.
I mean this is just the classic thing to do this season. If you make it at home, add some cloves and cinnamon sticks. We won't judge if you make it spiked.
Get your friends together and plan a day out. This can come in handy if you're planning on doing number three and four on this list. Plus, there are always apple cider donuts to be eaten at most orchards. And don't even get us started on the Instagram ops.
The foliage is just gorgeous this time of year. Take a drive around and do some leaf peeping. Or head to your favorite park for a picturesque walk. And if you're the crafty type, gather some fall leaves for some DIY décor.
Get in the Halloween spirit with some good ol' pumpkin carving. Save the pumpkin seeds to bake and snack on—they're loaded with zinc, which has a lot of benefits, one being it helps with skin repair and wound healing.
Or any kind of outdoor venue before it gets too cold. This is the best time of year to do it, too, because the weather is perfect for exploring outdoors.
When was the last time you went to one of these? It might be cheesy, but you can't deny they're fun!
What better way to enjoy the season's best foods by doing it with friends? I always prefer dining in a big group because you can make (and eat) a variety of dishes without the risk of having too many leftovers. Have a fall potluck, and if you live in warmer climates, plan one last picnic or outdoor meal.
If you're lucky to have a fireplace (or have friends that do), get ready for some prime fireside lounging. Outdoor firepits are a bonus. Or you could google restaurants or bars with outdoor firepits and make a reservation. Whatever it takes, really.
And it doesn't have to be the advanced trail. Get outdoors and enjoy the crisp air and pretty scenery.
Not on the treadmill, but outside. In a few months, it might be too cold for your outdoor running routine, so take advantage of it while you can.
Or if running isn't your thing, take your bike out for a spin. You don't have to be an aspiring cyclist to enjoy biking around town (or your local park).
No, we're not talking about gathering at a bar to watch a game. (Although, that's an option too.) Get your friends together to play football, soccer, Frisbee, insert favorite sport here…
You might not be able to enter the New York City or Chicago marathons at this point in time, but there could be some local races you can still join. Think a 5K or your city's annual turkey trot. Again, the weather is just perfect this time of year, making it easier to run.
Consider a stress-free, pre-holiday travel trip. Depending on your mood and what kind of vibe you're going for, it can be a R&R vacation at a resort and spa or a touristy trip to a new city.
19. Light Your Favorite Candle and Read a Book
Get a fall-inspired candle and curl up in your favorite chair with one of fall's latest releases. It's the best way to spend a cozy afternoon.
And don't feel guilty about it. Crisp and cool weekend mornings call for some lounging in bed.
Some self-care is always needed, and fresh air can do wonders, so crack open a window the next time you meditate. Or sit outside and close your eyes for some quiet time.
22. Write in Your Journal
If you journal as a form of self-care, it can be helpful to keep the new season in mind to write down any thoughts, goals, or things you're thankful for.
23. Declutter Your Closet
With a new season comes a change in wardrobe. Sort out your summer clothes and donate any that you don't want anymore. Take stock of your fall and winter wear (and bring it out of storage if you do that).
24. Get in the Garden
Or tend to your houseplants if you don't have outdoor space. Fall is a good time to prep your garden for winter and clean up anything from summer.
25. Decorate Your House for Fall
You can go all out with the seasonal décor, or if that's not your style, bring out the cozy blankets and other winter items you put in storage. It's also a good time to check around your space for any repairs that need to be made—like your heater or any filters to keep the air healthy.
Next up: 19 Things You Need to Do Before the End of the Year
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.
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