I have been in a bit of a rut lately. We all go through it when day to day life leaves little room for sparks of creativity or interests outside of work. Even with a creative job, there are some weeks that are more on autopilot than others. As someone who gets very inspired by a new season I anxiously anticipate the seasonal shift into Autumn. Although fall doesn’t officially begin for two weeks there have been slight changes in the weather lately that make it feel like it is fast approaching. I always feel revived by a new season and take it as an opportunity to reset a bit. It tends to bring on a flood of creative thoughts and I go into full nest mode for the remaining months of the year. I tend to lean into every season hard, but fall especially brings a familiar comfort that somehow makes mundane days even better.

Scent: For me, this time of year is all about tapping into our senses, smell in particular. Forever my favorite sense that has an ability to instantly calm me down or bring a smile to my face. I have been a fan of stovetop potpourri forever and rely on it heavily in the fall and holiday season to make our apartment smell festive and feel cozy. I buy a large bag of mulling spices and add a 1/2 cup or so to a pot of water and simmer on the stovetop for a few hours. I will often add a few cinnamon sticks and a fresh apple or orange (sliced) to add even more fragrance. I also have so many favorite fall candle scents, but lately have been very into Spiced Chai, which doesn’t smell overtly pumpkin, but so inviting.

Touch: The textures of the cooler months like a cozy pair of a slippers, a chic coat or the feel or a warm bubble bath are little luxuries that can make the days and nights feel special. I love Susanne Kaufmann‘s bath and body products so much and although they are pricy a little goes a long way (especially with the bubble bath). Carving out time to unwind always makes the season more enjoyable. Even the feeling of a nice walk in fresh autumn air does wonders for the nervous system. {more texture here}

Sound: I just made an Autumn Feels playlist that is a very calming way to start or wind down the day. For extreme calm play in said bubble bath.

See: We may not get much seasonal change in terms of saturated foliage, but I seek it out wherever I can. Hikes in West Marin, apple orchards in Sonoma County, pumpkin patches. I unapologetically love it all.

Taste: This is hands down my favorite time of year to play with recipes. As much as I love fresh summer produce, I always look forward to autumnal soups, pastas and sauces. Lots of squash, sage, leeks. I am looking forward to sharing more throughout the coming months.

Bubble Bath, Coat, Slippers, Candle

Photo sources: one, two, three, four, five, six