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Summer is over, work is back in full swing and the holidays are fast approaching. It’s a stressful time of year, which is why it’s a good time to prioritize recentering yourself and reconnecting with that inner peace and sense of purpose.
While the rain and 4 p.m. sunsets can make it hard to feel motivated to do anything at all, there are plenty of ways to get out of your anxious thoughts and into a state of calm even in the middle of the Big Dark.
Declutter your space
Have various piles of clothes or mail started growing again after all that spring cleaning? That’s OK. But because clutter and untidy living spaces can cause stress and anxiety, decluttering your space can be a great way to start the process of clearing out stress in your life (pun intended) and recentering yourself.
Start small by making your bed every morning and work up from there.
Go on a hike
In Seattle, there are many good hikes just a short drive in almost any direction.
If your new October goal is to recenter yourself instead of stressing about everything you have to do before the end of the year, a hike is the perfect way to do that. Hiking allows you to practice mindfulness and is good for your mental and physical health. Plus, moving your body is one of the best things you can do when anxiety and stress levels are high.
Need some recs for some easy yet beautiful fall hikes? Try Lake Valhalla on Highway 2, Artist Ridge or Blue Lake in the North Cascades. If you’re looking for larches, try Swauk Forest Discovery Trail.
Take a cold plunge
Nothing screams “hello, body” like a good ol’ cold plunge. And here in the PNW, there are plenty of places to participate in one, from regional lakes to Puget Sound.
Although more research is needed on the subject, cold plunges are believed to help reduce levels of mental stress due to the body’s release of endorphins, dopamine and more. If we’re talking intentionality, this is the ultimate way to practice it (you really want to have to walk into cold water in the winter — that’s dedication).
Phone a friend
… But like, actually spend time with them, too. Hanging out with your friends can be a mood booster, especially during the fall and winter months. Tired? Spend time with someone and connect: watch a movie, make a simple meal or sit and read together.
A good laugh or game night with a friend can help dissolve built-up stress and anxiety (although, maybe don’t suggest Monopoly if you want to avoid stressful situations).
Make a healthy meal with seasonal veggies
Speaking of cooking, challenge yourself to make a meal with seasonal veggies from your local farmers’ market. Eating at least 2 ½ cups of vegetables each day is recommended for most adults, and when you buy them in season, you know you’re getting them at their tastiest and most nutritious. Bonus points if you strike up a conversation with a vendor or a neighbor, too.
Eating enough veggies each day gives your body a much-needed dose of essential nutrients like vitamins, fiber and minerals — a great way to give your body what it needs to make it through the week.
Drive through some foliage
Whether you’re up for a drive to the North Cascades or just through the Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle, spending time marveling at the PNW’s autumn landscapes can be a great way to decompress.
Especially in the fall and winter months when it’s darker earlier, it’s important to get out when you can … even if you decide to stay in your car. Maybe crack the window every now and again to catch the scent of the good, clean forest breeze.
You don’t have to do it all
It’s OK to have big goals, and if you want to use the month of October to reassess, realign and retackle them, you definitely can. But remember, sometimes the best way to recover from the summer and prepare for the end of the year is to ensure that your body and brain are cared for.
