Greeting Autumn with Open Arms
September 13, 2024
To Inspire:
As the writer Ann Rinaldi said, “There comes a day each September when you wake up and know the summer is over and fall has arrived.” While we continue to have warm weather here in central Ohio and as I refuse to give up on my garden just yet, even I must admit that “day in September” is just around the corner.
Many people love autumn, with pumpkin spiced things taking over coffee shops and grocery shelves and nature providing beautiful scenery. Days get shorter, sweaters reappear. If you – like me – don’t necessarily love autumn, take some time now to set a positive mindset to find joy in the season ahead.
Celebrate Rest: “Autumn is springtime in reverse,” says writer Terri Guillemets. Much of nature starts to die back, preparing to store all the energy gathered over the summer. You, too, can take this time as a chance to slow down. Collect your memories from all you enjoyed this summer and recognize the quiet joy of this new season. Try not to get caught up in the rush of the season but take time to enjoy all the changes.
Make Traditions: Embrace the things you love to do each fall and find new ones. If you garden, it’s time to start cutting things back, taking things out, and moving things around. Take a walk in your favorite park and enjoying the color of the trees. Visit an apple orchard and buy some cider, or visit a pumpkin patch then carve a jack o’ lantern. Watch your favorite spooky movie. Host friends and family around an outdoor fire pit and make S’mores. Whatever you love about fall, take time to really enjoy it.
Make a Resolution: It’s not a new year, but with the start of school and the change of the weather, fall has that “back to school” excitement – it’s a new season of learning. As things move indoors, think about learning something new or sharpening your skills. Fall is also a great time to set fitness goals. Cooler weather makes for more enjoyable walks with your family or bike rides around the neighborhood. Set a goal now and by the time January 1 and a new season of resolutions arrives you will already be moving toward greater fulfillment.
The autumnal equinox is Sunday, September 22, making this our last full weekend of summer. Enjoy it, but also start thinking of all the things that would bring you joy this autumn, and get ready to embrace the season!
Written by Michelle O’Brien, Manager of Marketing & Communications