Can you believe it’s here? I know the official start date of fall was September 22, BUT only now does it truly feel like fall. I guess the month of October solidifies it for me. Well, except for the crazy October weekend in 2007 (my wedding weekend, of course!), where is was 90 degrees out! Other than that, October is when the true essence of fall begins to set in. The air is crisp, the leaves are beginning to fall, the apples and pumpkins are ready to be picked, the days are getting shorter, the desire to make soup is strong, as is the need to get your home in order, cozy and ready for the cold weather ahead (well, in the North East at least).
According to Chinese medicine, the fall represents a time of restoration and replenishment. It’s a time when those nesting instincts really kick in. It’s like we know we will be spending quite a bit of time indoors come winter, so we prepare ourselves in the fall.
Here are some ways to really embrase this fall season.
1. Clean up the air quality in your home. We already know that the air inside our home can be almost 5 times more polluted than the air outside of our home. Since the fall and winter seasons bring longer stretches of time spent indoors, it’s important to pay extra attention to your air quality. First and for-most (and oh so dear to my heart), LEAVE YOUR SHOES AT THE DOOR so that you do not track in dirt, mold, allergens, chemicals, and lord only knows what else, into your home. To further the effort try adding some houseplants.
2. Add in a few new accents pieces to your home….key word few. Now’s the time to add some fun new pillows to your sofa, a new throw to your armchair, or a new tray to your coffee table. Think accessorizing with fun pops of color. I’m not talking about fake leaves and straw, I’m talking about a tasteful decorations that will enhance your home and make it a cozy environment to be in during the months ahead.
3. Bring some nature indoors. This is one of my favorite thing to do all year round, but especially in the fall. Bring some fresh cut flower into your home. In the fall I love the look of branches in an old apothecary jar or a handful of freshly fallen leaves arranged in a little vintage juice glasses on the table. It’s a nice way to bring the outdoors in, plus it adds adds some seasonal pops of color into your home.
4. Purge as you pack up your summer stuff. There’s something about the fall season that leaves me organizing like a mad women. Instead of packing up all your summer gear to deal with next year, sort through it now. You’ll cut down on clutter and storage. and hey while you’re at it, do the same with your winter clothes you’re bringing out. Don’t just stop with your clothes, move on to the pantry, fridge, books, etc… Remember it’s a time for organizing!
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Yes! I love the idea of leaves in the jars/glasses- how fantastic!
I just did my own summer clothes purge and am running by the drop box to donate them today!
Great ideas! Love the leaves in jars too!
And great reference to Chinese medicine. If you follow the seasons, Fall is definitely the best time for decluttering and cleaning out the house.
Well written post!
I have been that “mad” woman running around purging and cleaning. It feels so GOOD, but I am exhausted after 4 days!
Heard about your blog through a bridesmaid of Megan Georgias. I love your website and the businees of “re” doing old furniture, new rooms, etc. I have found a new favorite blog:)