Brighten your autumn mood and get your home into the autumn spirit
For many the autumn associates with the beginning of a season of boring rains and cold winds that make you feel like staying indoors. Outdoor events are replaced by indoor warm drink dates.
The autumn brings not only the hustle and bustle of the school year that is followed by the succession of holidays but also a form of turning inward.
During this season stay thoughtful (attentive ) and aware of the slow changes around you. Enjoy the spirit of autumn, the smell of hot chocolate, and also healthy meals. When the chilly weather gets closer treat your five senses in the best way, surround yourself with warmth and positive energy.
Taste
Tastes and flavors make an unexpected impact on our energy and mood. When cooler weather sets in there are nothing better than warm and comforting meal such as pumpkin soup:
Here is a classic and very easy Pumpkin soup recipe:
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 leek, white part only, finely sliced
1 garlic clove, crushed
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1kg not peeled pumpkin, diced
1 large potato, peeled, diced
1L chicken style liquid stock or vegetable liquid stock
1/2 cup (125ml) thin cream
Method
Heat oil in a large saucepan over low heat, add onion and leek and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened but not colored.
Add garlic and spices and cook stirring for about 30 seconds. Add pumpkin, potato, stock and bring to the boil. Turn heat to low, cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Allow to cool slightly, then blend in batches.
Return soup to pan, stir through cream and reheat gently.
Season to taste. You can top the soup with pumpkin seeds, parsley, and freshly ground pepper.
Sight
The environment and places where you work and live can also make an essential (great) impact on your mood. And there is no need to make major changes – several small and bright details can bring a big difference, like blankets, pictures, photo frames, lamps, plants in calming and bright colors, those things that attract you, depending on your mood.
Be creative with Autumn!
Pumpkins are the symbol of autumn and the cutest decoration. Use it not just for preparing a healthy meal but for decorating your home. For instance, the big vase filled with small colorful pumpkins can brighten up your kitchen. Do not forget about other gifts of autumn such as chestnuts, acorns, and, of course, colorful leaves so harvest some for your own personal use.
Touch
It is also important to pay attention to the fabrics that surround us daily. Because we touch and texture, they also influence our mood. It is easy to get irritable, grumpy while sitting on an uncomfortable sofa or wear the itchy pullover. Add some soft fabrics to your use or even the opposite, something edgy instead. Just listen to what speaks to you and catches your eye. Maybe changing and an old grey blanket for something bright and cozier one or, perhaps the sheets on your bed to something soft or silkier. We are always touching and being touched, so make it count.
Smell
For many, the scent of autumn is about pumpkin spiced lattes, clove, cinnamon, or vanilla. These are the smells that give comfort unless like the smell of citrus that can make you feel more energized, boost energy and alertness. Pay attention to smell in your environment whether it’s candles or soaps, essential oils, or body lotions. I was recently amazed by the scent of my pumpkin soup through my home. It was both uplifting and comforting. Be conscious about the scents with which you fill your environment.
These simple tips and elements like touch, tastes, smells, and colors can help you adapt and celebrate the arrival of a new season.
If you would like to book in for an Autumn family photoshoot, please do get in touch. I am happy to talk through options and plan something really special for your family.
Feel free to contact me here for more information.