The Real Chic Life

If you’re anything like me you know how important it is to maintain a self-care routine year-round, but like me you might have been spending a little too much time rendezvousing with fall’s less rigid sister summer over the past few months. It’s easy to get swept up in the carefree sun-filled days and maybe (also like me) you didn’t exactly prioritize self-care the way you’d like to. 

With its more structured days, fall is the perfect time to take stock, reboot, and embrace a self-care routine. And while I’m all for working on health and fitness routines, self-care isn’t just about pilates and Peloton bikes- it’s a holistic approach. So I wanted to share some soothing and cozy fall self-care ideas:

1. Create a Fall Book Nook: I’ve always dreamed of a home library but you don’t have to do a whole remodel to create a cozy corner. Set it up with blankets, candles, and your favorite books. Add a warm drink like chai or hot chocolate. I love these single-serve coffee makers that allow you to switch between your favorite cocoa, tea, or fall coffee blend.

2. Take a nature walk– Now that the sun isn’t scorching from 9 AM-9 PM, it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy the changing leaves with peaceful walks in nature. Breathe in the crisp autumn air and take time to reflect. I also like to listen to podcasts or audiobooks on my walk. (Here are a few that I’ve downloaded) Lovely One, The Setback Cycle, and How To Build a Fashion Icon: Notes on Confidence.

3. Turn bath time into an at-home fall spa reprieve with seasonal scents– Use bath bombs or oils with scents like cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin spice for a relaxing soak. I love a long steamy shower too and these shower bombs.

4. Bake Seasonal Treats-Try baking something comforting like apple crisp, pumpkin bread, or cinnamon rolls. Or for a healthier treat try something savory like this Butternut Squash Salad. 

5. Start (or restart) A Mindful Journaling Practice– I love to reflect on the changing season, set goals for the rest of the year, and practice gratitude by writing daily. I like to use a planner for this. Day Designers has a special gratitude section that’s perfect for jotting down your gratitude list. 

6. Switch to Fall Skincare– Update your skincare routine for cooler weather, focusing on hydration with a rich moisturizer or body butter. La Mer’s moisturizing cream is fabulous but it’s very pricey. This new one from Merit works really well. It’s a moisturizing primer, and it’s about less than a quarter of the price. This one from Finley and Green is amazing too. Also, you can help your skin combat sun damage by using Vitamin C. This one is phenomenal and this one works well too. 

7. Cozy Knits & Tea Rituals– I love tea and there’s nothing I love more on a crisp fall day than wrapping myself in comfy sweaters and scarves while sipping a cup of tea. You can start a calming tea ritual by giving yourself a little time each day to explore different flavors like chai or spiced apple. This organic Golden Milk powder is also a favorite. It’s made with Turmeric, Ginger, Coconut pieces, Black Pepper and Chicory root. You can sip your way to good health. 

8. Autumn Arts & Crafts– Try some DIY projects like making fall wreaths, painting pumpkins, or knitting a scarf. If you’re not particularly crafty you might still want to take a class and give it a try. They provide guidance and make it fun.  

9. Fall-Themed Movie Nights– Set up a cozy movie night with autumn classics or feel-good films. Okay, confession time. I didn’t watch TikToks favorite fall series- Gilmore Girls in the 2000s. I typically like things a little less quiet. But thanks to the clock app I have been watching the reruns, and I have to admit it is the perfect cozy, feel-good show for this time of year. If you’re looking for something a little less vintage, Nobody Wants This is a cozy (adult) romance you can binge on Netflix.

10. And last but not least try Aromatherapy– Use essential oils like cedarwood, clove, or vanilla in a diffuser to create a warm and relaxing atmosphere. If you’re more of a candle girl- like I tend to be, these are perfect cozy fall go-to’s (here and here). And if you’d like to make your own Fall Simmer Pot here’s an easy recipe. 

So those are my Autumn wellness tips but I would love to hear about how you’re embracing self-care and nurturing yourself this fall too. 

Until Next Post,

Xo Tonya Parker