Creating Pockets of Joy in Autumn
One thing you can count on, in the online world, as the seasons move into autumn, is that there’s widespread glee in embracing the cosiest, softest season of them all. Even I’m acutely aware of just how many times I type the A word at this time of year. However, it’s often also a time where Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) sinks in and, for a lot of people who don’t like the darker evenings creeping in, it can be a tricky time of the year.
I’m one of those glass-half-full people; I revel in documenting the minutiae of the little joys in life and reaching just that fraction more in search of everyday magic. As airy-fairy as that may sound, in times of hardship, grief and exhaustion, it’s what’s gotten me through and held me tight. So, today I thought I’d share some ways to create pockets of joy in autumn, even when it’s looking hard to find it…
Finding a morning sweet spot for outdoors time
Regular readers of Daisybutter will know that I wax lyrical about the importance of a gulp or two of fresh air. More than four years of working from home have equipped me with the knowledge that throwing open a window to draw in fresh rounds of air every few hours does the mind and soul a world of good. In autumn, however, that can be a little trickier. It isn’t viable or always economical to let the cold air in, with a home to keep warm. Sometimes, the best joy is in finding 10 or 15 minutes to step outdoors and soak in the crisp autumn breeze. Lace up your boots, pour a KeepCup of tea, and get outdoors. We all need a break here and there.
Indulging in a little pumpkin admiration
Halloween is en route, and whether or not you ‘celebrate’ it, there’s no denying that the pressure to buy ALL THE PUMPKINS is upon us. Whilst I personally have never picked up a pumpkin to carve, I can admire them from afar. That glimmer of a candlelit glow beyond fleshy orange carvings is truly something to behold. So, head on out. To a pumpkin patch, to the supermarket… Both are valid. Carve away, get those joyful photographs to share and treasure for years to come. Then, use the innards to rustle up some pumpkin korroke, my favourite pumpkin treat.
A cosy Sundaze afternoon
The imminent flurry of seasonal invitations is enough to spook any fellow introvert, let’s face it. Create a pocket of joy to soak up all for yourself with a cosy afternoon in. Turn down Zoom video chats, turn off notifications, turn down that bookshop wander… Instead, grab your favourite old blankets and make a little den on the armchair, or perhaps in bed. Stack up your current or future reads – you don’t have to read them all, but doesn’t it feel great to be surrounded by them? Brew a pot of delicious coffee. Carefully cut a slice of cake. Appoint that candle you’ve been saving for best. Tune in to your favourite lo-fi playlist. Nestle in for the ultimate, cosiest Sundaze.
Armour yourself for an outdoors wander
There’s nothing I enjoy more than a little walk or even a hike. Autumn is a season that’s a feast for the eyes. Acorns to spot on the ground, leaves turning crisp and golden orange, squirrels foraging in preparation for even brisker weather… It’d be a shame to miss it. I feel like I unlocked an achievement in autumn/winter joy when I invested in a decent raincoat, Hunter boots and a Thermos flask. Seek out windproof coats and prep yourself with deep pockets to stash your flask, a face mask/covering and the all-important camera to capture the best moments. It’s all in the preparation.
How do you create pockets of joy in autumn, even when the rain pours?