As summer takes its final bow, you might find yourself facing the post-holiday blues. Perhaps your summer didn’t even include a holiday. Regardless of how you spent your summer, transitioning back into the daily grind of autumn can be challenging. That’s why it’s important to focus on self-care and mindfulness now more than ever.

Here are our recommendations and wellness tips for autumn:

THE AKT ROUTINE

As the mornings get chillier and it becomes harder to leave the warmth of your bed, maintaining daily rituals can offer a comforting routine and something to look forward to each day. Taking a moment to be present and connected with your inner self not only promotes a healthier mindset but can also help bring clarity to your day.

We recommend following our curated (and recently updated) AKT Routine. With our ‘Prepare to Perform’ collection, you can elevate your morning routine into the perfect ritual—so you can get ahead of the day feeling relaxed and radiating confidence.

PRACTISING MINDFULNESS

To beat the post-holiday blues, it’s also important to take a moment for mindfulness. But how can you practise mindfulness?

If you’re interested in meditation, we recommend using the Ten Percent Happier App. This app not only offers some of the best guided meditations for beginners but also features courses, podcasts, and mini boosts of mindfulness in quick 4-9 minute talks to support mental well-being.

Journaling is also a great way to practise mindfulness. Create a cosy nook in your bed or sofa area, make some tea, take a notebook and pen, and start writing. If you’re new to journaling, here are some ideas to get started:

• Gratitude log: Write down a list of people and things you’re grateful for.
• Daily reflections: Use this space to vent about your day and reflect on your experiences.
• Quotes: Jot down inspirational quotes to help you feel motivated and connected with your feelings.
• Vision Board: Create a vision board where you can write down your goals and manifest your dream life. This will help you focus on what matters to you and align with your values.
• Plan projects: Use your journal to organise exciting projects, trips, and days out for the autumn. If you haven’t planned anything yet, now is the perfect time to start!

 

Exercise can also be a form of mindfulness. Whether you lift weights at the gym, go on walks around your nearest park, or do rock climbing, exercise helps release endorphins and dopamine, according to the NHS, creating a feel-good factor. This is a healthy way to combat feelings of depression or anxiety that might arise during the colder seasons.

Trying new recipes can also encourage mindfulness. Cooking requires you to stay present, especially if you’re experimenting with a new recipe! Doing it alone can invoke a sense of meditation, and cooking with others is a perfect opportunity to connect. For a variety of delicious recipes, we recommend using the Kitchen Stories App.

As the leaves turn brown and the days grow shorter, autumn is the perfect season to reset and refocus on your well-being. Whether you’re going back to school, back to the office, or you haven’t left either, nurture your body with the AKT Routine, explore the endless benefits of mindfulness, and embrace this autumn like a class AKT.

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