Autumn is a beautiful season when nature shows us how beautiful letting go can be. The trees turn colors and drop their leaves, creating space for something new. Autumn is also a beautiful time for us as humans to turn inward, slow down and live more consciously. Mindfulness can help tremendously with this. That's why we like to share these 8 mindful autumn activities with you.
Also read: Everything you want to know about mindfulness
1. Listen to autumn sounds in the dark
Go outside one evening and find a quiet spot. Turn off your phone, sit on a bench and listen only to the sounds of nature around you. The rustling of leaves, the wind through the branches and the gentle shuffling of animals. This is a fine exercise to sharpen your senses and be totally present in the moment, without distraction.
2. Plant bulbs for spring
Autumn is the time to plant bulbs for flowers that will bloom in spring. You can think of planting bulbs as a beautiful mindful activity to reflect on what you want to let go of in your life, while symbolically planting something that will bring new life in the future. Focus on sowing intentions while working with the earth.
3. Observe autumn shadows
In autumn, the sun is lower, creating special shadows and light. Spend some time observing the movement of shadows, for example in your home or garden. How do they change with the light? This makes you more aware of the subtle changes around you and teaches you to focus your attention in a calming way.
4. Write a letter to autumn
Take time to write a letter to autumn as a moment of reflection. This can be a form of meditation in which you share your thoughts and feelings about the season, what you let go of and what you are grateful for. Writing helps you become aware of inner processes and can be a fine form of self-reflection.
5. Drop meditation with rain
Rain often falls in autumn. Instead of seeing rain as something annoying, you can actually use it as a meditative practice. Sit by a window and focus your attention on the drops sliding down. Follow their path with your eyes and observe their movement without judgment.
6. Create your own autumn fragrance
Mix autumn fragrances such as cinnamon, cloves, orange and pine needles to create your own fragrance mix. You can do this by putting them in a scent burner or making a homemade potpourri. While making and smelling this mix, focus entirely on your senses and enjoy the effect the scent has on you.
7. Observe waving branches
Find a tree nearby and watch the branches waving in the wind. Observe the leaves that move with you and sometimes fall from the branches and swirl down. Follow the movement of the branches and leaves and use this as a way to reflect on what you want to let go of.
8. Morning ritual with autumn light
Autumn mornings often have a particularly soft, diffuse light. Take a few minutes each morning to consciously experience the morning light. Open a window, breathe in the fresh air and watch the light make its way through. This simple ritual can help you start your day with peace and mindfulness.
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