As the leaves turn and the crisp air rolls in, (OK, I'm in NC and there is no crisp air yet, but I choose to believe) there’s something special about getting our homes ready for fall. Beyond just aesthetics, decorating for the seasons can bring emotional and mental health benefits. So for all of you looking for an excuse you can say it is good for your well-being!
Why?
Boosts Mood: Decorating our homes for fall can actually increase dopamine and serotonin, the “feel-good” hormones. Bringing out pumpkins, warm colors, and cozy textures can uplift our spirits.
Sense of Newness: Changing the decor with the seasons provides a sense of newness. It’s refreshing to see our environment evolve, especially when life feels stagnant.
Comfort and Coziness: Fall is all about warmth and comfort. Adding soft blankets, warm-toned pillows, and fall-scented candles makes our homes feel like a safe, cozy retreat. This is a good reason to switch out the abundance of throws most of us have.
Connection to Nature: Incorporating natural elements like pumpkins, pine cones, and fall leaves brings a touch of nature indoors. This connection to the outdoors helps ground us and supports mental clarity. Think of it as grounding in the home.
Boosts Creativity: Decorating for a new season sparks creativity. Whether it’s making your own wreath or arranging a fall-themed centerpiece, this artistic expression can lead to a sense of accomplishment. Many of the DIY projects are inexpensive, quick and easy.
Seasonal Anticipation: Bringing out fall decorations can make us feel excited for what’s to come – Halloween, Thanksgiving, or just cozy evenings by the fire. This anticipation brings joy and something to look forward to.
Mindful Living: Seasonal decorating helps us live in the moment. When we focus on how to celebrate each season through our space, we become more present and appreciative of the here and now. It is also a good time to get rid of items we don't use anymore.
Promotes Wellness: A well-cared-for home mirrors how we care for ourselves. When we take the time to decorate, it’s a reflection of nurturing our space and well-being. It just feels nice!
DIY Fall Home Decor Ideas:
Fall Leaf Garland: Gather some artificial or real fall leaves, twine, and mini clothespins. Clip the leaves to the twine and hang it along your fireplace mantel, windows, or walls. This adds a pop of autumn color to any room and connects you to the season’s beauty. To make them last you can coat the leaves with Modge Podge or dip them in beeswax.
Pumpkin Spice Centerpiece: Take a large pumpkin, hollow it out, and use it as a vase for a fall flower arrangement. Add sunflowers, eucalyptus, or fall grasses. This centerpiece brings warmth to your dining table and reminds us to appreciate nature’s beauty during this cozy season. You can also use a fake pumpkin and cut a hole in the top, this allows you to put a glass of water inside to use as a vase.
Air Dry Clay Leaf Bowls : Roll out air dry clay, press a real leaf into it to imprint the leaf's texture, and trim the edges to match the shape. Mold the clay shape over a bowl or crumpled foil to give it a curved shape and let dry - I like to use the inside of a bowl. Once dry, paint it in fall colors like gold, orange, or red. These bowls make lovely decorations or can hold small items like keys or jewelry, potpourri, or tea lights. Not food safe or able to handle water.
Mason Jar Candle Holders: Take some mason jars and add a coat of Modge Podge to the jar then wrap them with burlap or twine. Once wrapped attach the end to the glue on the jar and put an additional coat of Modge Podge over the twine. Add a few fall-themed accents like small pinecones, cinnamon sticks, or mini pumpkins to the inside and a string of Fairie lights.
Decorating for fall is more than just a fun seasonal activity. It’s an opportunity to refresh our space, boost our mood, and stay grounded in the present. Your home is a reflection of your wellness, and seasonal decor can be an uplifting way to bring new energy into your life.
Let's Get Cooking
Your how looks cozy, now let's make it smell cozy!
Time: 30 Minutes
Easy
Tips:
If you can't find apple cider apple juice will work.
Feel free to use dried Sage if you can't find fresh.
Time: 45 Minutes
Easy
Tips: None needed, just enjoy!
Time: 45 Minutes
Easy but needs blender or stick blender
Tips:
Love and Lemons tends towards items like coconut oil, almond flour, and vegetable broths, which are yummy, but feel free to use chicken broth and standard oils and flours.
Time: 1-2 hours. I let mine simmer longer for deeper flavor
Easy
Tips:
This is a good recipe but to make it better let's make a few adjustments. The orginal recipe was Nell Newman's Chili and it is the one I use, but doesn't seem to be available online anymore.
The thing that makes this so different is Spaghetti Sauce! Don't worry, it is great!
Add 1 tsp of Cumin when you add the Chili powder
Don't add green peppers, corn, or celery. I mean, you can, but it isn't standard Chili that way.
The key for deep flavor is letting it simmer longer.
I don't add the jalepeno
It is fine to add extra garlic
Time: 25 Minutes
Easy but needs blender or stick blender
Tips:
I used to think that tomato soup excited only to dip your sandwich in, but then I had this one, which is yummy straight up!!
I usually don't do the croutons, but just make regular grilled cheese sandwiches. Chef's choice.
An easy way to break up whole tomatoes is to squeeze them with your hand. Be careful, it does squirt and an apron is recommended. I find that this is the most thourough method.
Happy Fall! May your home look, feel, and smell cozy!
I love shopping online, but there's something special about flipping through a good old-fashioned magazine or catalog! If you'd like a paper copy, just send me a message and I'll be happy to send one your way. In the meantime, here's a digital version I think you'll really enjoy!
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