Bucket List

The best wellbeing ideas for autumn

It’s finally autumn again! At this colorful time of the year, we love things that simply do us good and celebrate life. And what is better than an autumn bucket list with the best activities to make the most of this cooler time of year? Jot down your own list and start looking forward to doing some arts and crafts with the kids, joining the library, enjoying some fruity soul food, listening to relaxing audio books, compiling inspirational gratitude lists and many other self-care ideas for you and your family.

1.     Do some autumn arts and crafts with the kids:  All kinds of colorful creations can be made from chestnuts, leaves, pinecones and the like. If you have children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews, creative autumn arts and crafts are a great idea for your bucket list. Check out Pinterest or social media for inspiration. Grab some colored paper, scissors and some glue then go for a nature walk to collect your outdoor inspiration and you are good to go! It’s all about having fun and enjoying some family time together. Our Raspberry Almond Granola Bars and Vegan Sweet Potato-Banana Bites are just the thing for young and old crafters.

2.     Take time to read:  Some activities often get sidelined in the stress of everyday life. Use this autumn to settle down and finally read a book again. Cozy autumn evenings are the ideal time to do this. Join your local library, check out your local book exchange or borrow a page-turner from a friend. If you prefer to have someone else do the reading, audio books are the ideal choice this autumn. Listen together as a family and don’t forget the snacks!

3.     Enjoy the abundance of produce that autumn offers:  We loved salads, smoothies and (n)ice cream during the summer. But autumn is also the perfect time of the year to indulge in an array of delicious produce, including pumpkin, squash, carrots, and potatoes. They’re not only loaded with macronutrients, vitamins and minerals but also bring a warmth and depth of flavor to soups and stews that are perfect for the cooler weather. And don’t forget warming beverages, such as spiced apple cider and the hugely popular pumpkin spice lattes, that are sure to soothe the soul. But let's not forget about the sweet treats, such as fruit crisps and cobblers that showcase the fresh fall fruits like ripe apples and pears.

4.     Write a gratitude list:  The end of the year is the perfect time for your very own personal gratitude list. How does that work? Write down the things that have made you happy in the last few months. What are you really grateful for? This could be relationships, health, good food, pleasant trips, your job and many unforgettable moments. This list can also help you to achieve more satisfaction and optimism on dark autumn and winter days. At the same time, remembering what makes you happy is a wonderful mindfulness exercise.

5.     Enjoy autumn with your senses:  Every season has its own particular charms, yet how often do you get frustrated on a rainy autumn day? Instead, why not slip on your goulashes and walk through rustling leaves, enjoy candlelight during the evening hours, try new types of tea, organize a family game night or collect pinecones – there is so much to look forward to!

Published November 1, 2023