Hi everyone!

Can’t believe we’re entering fall!! This year, I’ve been FALL-ing in love with New England!!

A few years ago, I was super stressed with my first semester of grad school in addition to my transition to the east coast that I completely disregarded any, if not ALL, self-care activities. Would you believe that?

This fall, I made it my ultimate GOAL to check things off my bucket list… and no, I was not going to let school get in the way of that LOL

Make a bucket list

Coming from LA, I never had much of a fall experience. I remember writing about a potential bucket list back in 2016, and for the first time ever, I am checking things off 😀

I went apple picking last weekend at Honey Pot Hill Orchards, then this past weekend, I spent a couple of days in Maine where I experienced my first (muddy) corn maze and saw beautiful orange leaves on trees!! AAANNDD I also managed to get a glimpse of some cute pumpkins too! This list may seem pretty basic, but the point is make a list of things YOU want to do. I promise you can’t ever go wrong with that! I still have yet to carve a pumpkin though, so I’ll check back with you all later on that 😉 (Update in 2023: I finally did!)

Take advantage of outdoor workouts

I know… the temps are slowly taking a dip, and I’m not sure I am ready for winter LOL. Because it’s still October, I highly encourage to make the most of this crisp weather. Outdoor workouts don’t always have to be so intense. Whether it’s running a stadium or doing bootcamp on a bench somewhere at the park, this will get you up and running on those endorphins!! I usually go on Eventbrite to get the 411 on all the events in my city (or if you’re in Boston, I also use Joyraft or The Boston Calendar)

Make it a habit to detox

Take this how you wish. It could be a physical or mental detox. My BFF Lauren and I have decided to go without social media every Sunday (beginning next week!) I think it’s a splendid idea bc sometimes, I’m just over the mindless scrolling. With projects and deadlines stacking up, I know I need to get it together and make the most of every Sunday to just do me. A habit as simple as detoxing from 8pm onwards is also a detox and less overwhelming.

Get out of the city

If you live in the city, you KNOW that sometimes, noise pollution can be a hindrance to your productivity level. It could be something as simple as the T/subway noise or cars honking everywhere. Either way, try and make it a habit to get out of the city every now and then. You don’t have to cross state borders to do this; just find someplace quiet to get some mindfulness vibes going. Now that I live in the suburbs, I love a mix of city and suburb life. I usually go on Google maps and honestly just search random things on there within a certain radius (ie. hiking areas).

Practice gratitude

With the change in seasons, it can be somewhat of a transition for your mind and body. Take some time to be in tune with the change, do something you love (write, paint, etc) and let yourself transition with the season… the way I’m taking the opportunity to write this post.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy

You can never go wrong with a cup of hot cider and an October-inspired movie. Think Hocus Pocus (still haven’t seen it, oops!) or Halloween vibes. If you’re into Disney, try this out. You can thank me later ;D

So, get cozy and let yourself BE cozy. School and work doesn’t always have to be a 24/7 thing. Self-care is just as important as meeting deadlines… and self-care doesn’t need to be a whole spa weekend. Do what works for you, your timeline, and your desires 🙂

Now, it’s your turn to share!! What do you do in Fall?! I’d love to know.