Happy Well Being Life: How to create a positive mindset this autumn

-Velvet's contributing wellbeing editor, Caroline S. Asante shares ways to manifest a positive mindset as the season changes to autumn

As the days grow shorter, schools return and the leaves begin to transform the landscape into warm hues of gold and amber, September heralds the transition of the seasons. With another year speeding by (is it just me?), give autumn 2023 a special place in your heart as a time for signifying change, gratitude, and renewal.

Each year, as the air turns crisp and the days embrace a shorter span of sunlight, I prepare my wellbeing to embrace the new season with a positive mindset.

Here are six mindful autumn activities I've discovered to welcome this beautiful time of change:

1.Embrace change with gratitude
Autumn reminds me that change is an inevitable part of life. Instead of resisting it, I welcome the seasonal shift with gratitude. I take a moment each day to reflect on the beauty of the changing landscape, the cooling breeze, and the comforting sound of rustling leaves beneath my feet. And as I’ve mentioned in my previous columns, it’s well worth hugging a tree as part of your daily or weekly life habit. Practising gratitude helps us shift our focus from what might be lost to what is gained.

2.Start a new season journal for fast manifestation and emotional relief
I keep a gratitude journal, noting down three things I am grateful for each day. And if you haven’t journaled before, make sure you pick up my introduction to journaling notebook. It grounds me in the present and cultivates a positive outlook on life, no matter the chaos around. Find a cosy spot in a park, forest or even in your own garden. With a pen and notebook in hand, you can pour out your thoughts and emotions, allowing yourself to release any burdens and express gratitude for the simple joys that autumn brings.

3.Nurture a positive mindset so it becomes a habit
To nurture a more positive mindset during this month of transition, engage in mindful activities that connect you with nature. Forest bathing (yes, hugging trees again) is one such activity that allows me to immerse myself fully in the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest. As I walk amongst the trees, I feel a true sense of grounding and rejuvenation. And in the East of England, we have so many forests, nature reserves and parks to do this.

4.Practise self-care rituals in this month of Migraine Awareness
The shorter days can sometimes bring a sense of lethargy and melancholy. To combat this and in recognition of this month’s focus on Migraine Awareness, I prioritise self-care rituals such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine, meditation before sleep and most importantly, to prevent headaches and migraines, staying hydrated by drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water a day. You can find more mindful relaxation techniques at happywellbeinglife.com

5. Set realistic goals
Fall brings a sense of renewal, much like the start of a new year. Harnessing this energy, I set realistic and achievable goals for the season ahead. I make a list of things I wish to accomplish, both big and small, and break them down into manageable steps. Celebrating small victories along the way boosts my confidence and keeps me motivated to take on bigger challenges.

6. Cultivate connections with loved ones
As the days grow shorter and colder, I find solace in the warmth of human connection. I make a conscious effort to nurture my relationships with loved ones, creating meaningful memories together. Whether it's a cosy family dinner, a bonfire with friends, or a heart-warming conversation over video calls with distant relatives, these moments strengthen my support system and remind me of the love that surrounds me.

*Caroline S. Asante (she/her) is an award-winning former BBC radio broadcaster turned writer, author, and producer. She is founder of Happy Well Being Life, an online platform dedicated to helping individuals prioritise their holistic health and improve their emotional, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Sign up and join us today at happywellbeinglife.com