Autumn has finally arrived at Furman and oh has it been long-awaited. The weather has become chilly, and the foliage has slowly transitioned to beautiful hues of reds, oranges, and yellows — goodbye hot and sticky weather and hello cozy sweaters and warm drinks. That means it’s time to embrace the many fall-themed items and traditions that bring joy and excitement to our lives! From pumpkin products galore to holiday time spent with family and friends – there is so much to enjoy in the coming season! So, looking to spice up your fall? In need of self-care tips or fun activities to do? I’ve got you covered. Below, I’ve highlighted my favorite things and activities that will have you “falling” for fall!
Trader Joe’s Has It All
If you’re a lover of pumpkin – pumpkin bisque, pumpkin butter, pumpkin muffins – Trader Joe’s is the place to go. My favorite pumpkin product is their infamous Pumpkin Bread & Muffin Mix. My mom and I used to make it all the time during the fall season! It is a festive and easy snack to whip up in the kitchen. Trader Joe’s has an endless selection of other fun fall-themed products, and, as of this past September, they have added even more fall products to their inventory. From Soft-Baked Sunflower Butter Cookies to Pumpkin Overnight Oats, there are plenty of cool new food items to pick up that will satisfy even the pickiest eater. So, grab a group of friends and head over to Trader Joes — you can even make a taste-test night out of it!
Time To Cozy Up
There’s no better feeling than being curled up on your bed, in a comfy outfit, and watching your favorite Netflix show. Everyone needs a night like this once in a while, a time when you can really let yourself relax and wind down. Interested in upping your chill-out game? Try a weighted blanket! They are known to reduce anxiety, increase calmness, and improve sleep quality – how perfect for when you want to snuggle up and feel cozy on a cold night!
Skincare Tips
As the season transitions from summer to fall, so should your skincare regime. Ok, not entirely, but it is time to double down on hydration. With colder seasons approaching, the amount of moisture (humidity) in the air decreases. In other words, the humidity that helps our skin stay plump and hydrated lessens, and the colder weather only increases skin dry-out and makes us more susceptible to cracking and flaking. No one wants that! My favorite, affordable products include Vanicream Moisturizing Cream and CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. If you’re looking for a splurge product, I recommend the Lotus Balm from BeautyCounter. Let’s not forget about sunscreen too. UVA and UVB rays, which age skin and burn skin, respectively, still exist on cloudy days and during colder seasons, so be sure to look at SPF counts when selecting products!
Enjoy the Outdoors
This one is pretty easy, especially when the weather seems to be calling everyone outside! It is amazing what a breath of cool, crisp air will do for you. Plus, you don’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors thanks to Furman’s beautiful campus and the Swamp Rabbit Trail. With the leaves changing and the weather cooling, there are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors, either with friends or alone! So, when planning your next adventure, consider apple picking, bike riding, or visiting local farmers’ markets. Don’t be afraid to venture out and explore – that’s the fun part, after all!
Fall-Themed Smoothies and Drinks
I know it’s getting cooler, but who doesn’t love a good smoothie? Plus, it’s a great way to pack in ingredients that both heal and detox the body. Turmeric, for example, has anti-inflammatory properties that fight against free radicals; ginger is a natural immunity booster loaded with antioxidants (great for detoxing!); apples are full of vitamins and, believe it or not, can reduce inflammation in our skin. So, here are some ideas to get you in the fall mood. Give apple and turmeric, banana and cardamom, or fig and almond butter a try next time you want a smoothie. I also recommend the Vegan Hulk and the Livin’ On A Pear Smoothie at Swamp Rabbit Café and Grocery. Both smoothies are vegan and do not contain any added sugars!
For those not feeling a cold smoothie, a few other go-to warm drinks are cinnamon chai tea lattes, matcha lattes with cinnamon, hot apple cider, or even warm vanilla milk! And if you’re wanting a quick and easy drink to take with you on the go, I recommend picking up TAZO organic chai tea next time you’re at Publix. It’s so yummy and delicious, and always puts me right in the fall mood.
