Nourish: A Little Care Before Winter

The ‘holiday period’ is definitely over and we’re back in the swing of things that came before it, hopefully with a few changes, as mentioned in last month’s post. But how do we keep things going and, more importantly, keep ourselves comfortable and nourished?

We tend to think of October as cold, damp, dark and all things spooky but the weather has still been quite mild and sunny, so perhaps we’re not thinking of preparing for autumn and winter just yet. Although the garden’s looking a little different now and perhaps we might need a few little changes ourselves. Nothing drastic, though, right? Just joy to ease us into the season.

Our roses are still budding in our garden…

…even as the garden changes around them. A little reminder that autumn has its own joys - we just need to keep an eye out for them!

Clothing that feels good and comfy makes a comeback.

Before the weather turns, many of us put away our pastels, vest tops and sandals and replace them with sweaters, odd socks and boots. It’s always a good feeling to go through our wardrobes and decide whether to keep, donate, sell or bin. The same goes for all rooms in the house at this time of year - a spring-clean for autumn.

We may have forgotten what we already have and when it comes to finding things, our hearts skip a beat as we remember what those items mean to us (and if you’re anything like me, then we can’t then get rid of them!).

A little skincare adjustment.

Skin might need a bit of extra TLC before the coming months, so we may like to check our skin and body products in preparation for colder breezes, the heating coming back on and the temptation to turn up the temperature in the shower or bath. A little more hydration and moisturisation might be welcome.

Nothing too drastic if we’ve been looking after our skin anyway.

Food that nourishes.

Are the salad bags and cherry tomatoes being replaced by hearty vegetables and comforting soups? Making meals that feel familiar and satisfying but still manageable. Cold drinks being replaced by hot mugs of cha.

Ice now being used from the freezer for a refreshing G&T aperitif (traditionally enjoyed to stimulate the appetite, apparently. Who knew?) instead of keeping those endless glasses of water cool in the heatwaves of the summer that we endured.

Keeping ourselves moving.

As the days get shorter, it’s tempting to stay tucked up indoors but keeping up the movement we enjoy can feel good too. A walk (with or without a dog), a swim, some yoga or a bop around the kitchen. Whatever suits us and how we’re feeling that day. Then home to that blanket, of course.

Making time for rest.

That blanket might be within reach as temperatures drop (and a hot water bottle if, like me, you’re always getting cold feet). Outside events replaced by quieter evenings in front of the telly, ready for the seasonal change in programmes. Being aware that our energy might be different from one day to the next, probably due to weather conditions and allowing ourselves a little room for that.

The things that nourish us beyond food.

These are the important things and not just for this time of year. Let’s make it every day. Keep in contact with our friends, laugh out loud, read a good book, gulp that fresh air and create little pockets of things to look forward to. Fill that diary - or not.

What’s that expression? Take care of ourselves so we can take care of others.

October arriving doesn’t mean we have to turn our whole lives upside down. Sometimes it’s just finding our socks again.