PART OF THE LAMPLIGHTER CHAPTERS

Is it just me or can you feel autumn knocking at the door? Are you ready for the summer months to end? The garden spiders are hanging on damp webs, it’s getting darker earlier and I have a strange desire to put warm socks on first thing in the morning!

I want to make these early autumnal weeks more about recharging and reflection, with less focus on To-Do lists and chores. Those things will get done regardless. It’s time to savour the last precious warmth from the sun at home and any extra time with our children. By engaging in mindful activities and thoughtful preparations, we can ensure that the changing season brings a sense of calm and contentment to our homes.

Here are six things you can do to help you prepare for fall with a peaceful heart.

1. Be Precious With Your To Do List

Why do we all go into a mad frenzy at this time of year? It spoils what could otherwise be a steady increase in activity. Instead of listing every single movement you need to make in a day and trying to cross it all off, switch it around. Plan for peace.

Think about things that you don’t need to be doing, like making a dental appointment for your husband/wife. Sure it’s nice to do these things for each other, but does it really need to be on your list? They can actually do this themselves. Take a long hard look at what’s on there and see how many things really NEED to be done. Cross off everything else.

2. De-clutter & Organise

Go through your belongings and gently release what you no longer need, creating space for the new season to unfold. Organize your wardrobe and draws. Take an hour to look through any storage areas and see what’s no longer serving you. Have you used it in the last 12 months? Do you really need it? For me, cleaning the kitchen and rearranging the living room works wonders for my mood. No need to go crazy! Take a day or two slowly sorting through.

3. Create A Cosy Nook

Transform your living room or another corner of your home into a cosy nook where you can unwind and relax. If your bedroom is your preferred space instead, then declutter there first. Fill it with soft cushions, blankets, and perhaps a few fall-inspired decorations. These don’t have to be new or fit like an aesthetic in a magazine. The point is comfort. This space can become your sanctuary for reading, meditating, or simply enjoying a cup of tea in the last of the suns rays or as the weather begins to cool. A dedicated cosy spot will invite a sense of tranquillity into your daily routine.

4. Incorporate Nature

Incorporate elements of nature into your home. Collect fallen leaves, pinecones, and branches to create simple yet beautiful arrangements. The children can help. Natural touches can bring a sense of grounding and serenity to your living space.

5. Reflect & Set Intentions

I know that finding quiet time to focus solely on yourself can be extremely rare but take a moment to reflect on your goals and intentions for the upcoming season. Use your quiet corner to journal or meditate on what you hope to achieve in the months ahead. It might mean getting up a little earlier than usual or allowing a little more screen time than you usually would so you can get some head space but setting positive intentions can help you navigate the changes with a peaceful and purposeful mindset. I often feel if my mind is in order I can tackle most physical endeavours.

6. Special Time

Take the opportunity to make some last minute, low prep memories with your kids. Make the most of being able to be outdoors without wearing a coat or sensible shoes.

• Camping doesn’t always have to involve travelling far from home. Set up a backyard campout for your family to enjoy the simplicity of nature right in your own space. Disconnect from technology, and create lasting memories together.
• Help your children create a scrapbook using photos and mementoes you collected over the summer. Reminise about the fun you’ve had together as you build a lovely keepsake together.
• Go for a nature walk together. Take time to notice what it’s like now and what’s already beginning to change. Make a plan to repeat the walk in a month so you can compare the weather and what you’re wearing!
• Take an end of summer photo. Don’t worry about perfection. If the kids pull funny faces it will capture their characters. Frame it and place it somewhere you can all see it often as a reminder of what you have and the love that you have for each other.

[DISCLOSURE – AS AN AMAZON ASSOCIATE I EARN FROM QUALIFYING PURCHASES]