The transitioning of the seasons is particularly exciting to me. It can feel like a reawakening or a reset. In fall, it feels like a time to reflect inwardly and slow down. As the summer dwindles down and we prepare ourselves for the next phase, let's take a look at all September and the upcoming season has in store...
September botanicals :
Aster & Morning Glory
These plants are the birth flowers of September. Florals are a wonderful way to immerse into the season. Each one symbolizes something unique.
Aster ~
The aster bears a likeness to the daisy, yet appears smaller and more 'star-shaped.' In researching the symbolism behind the aster, I found that this little flower embodies so much. It's been said that the aster was placed on the alter of Greek gods & goddesses, standing for powerful love and valor. What a lovely way to reign in a new season.
Morning Glory ~
The more commonly-known morning glory is a flower that exhibits resiliency as it blooms each morning and dies in the evening, only to rise again the next morning. Morning glories can often be found in array of different colors, ranging from white, pink, blue, red, and purple. The morning glory is said to symbolize everlasting love and affection. Morning glories may also be a symbol of strength, power, and the ability to adapt.
September Lunar Calendar :
First Full Moon ~
The first full moon in the month of September will take place on the 10th. This is also known as the harvest moon or corn moon. The simple act of acknowledging the phases of the moon is a great way to connect with nature/the universe.
Some recommended activities during the full moon may be grounding techniques, such as yoga, journaling, or meditation.
New Moon ~
September's new moon will be on the 25th. I love that this will be happening towards the end of the month, just a few days into fall. The new moon can symbolize new beginnings and a fresh start. Maybe you feel inspired to try something new or clear your space and gear up for the season.
Early Fall Playlist :
Music, at least for me, can really immerse me in the moment. I typically change what I listen to based on the season, opting for more gentle and slow, folksy music for the fall. I curated a playlist specifically for the month of September to ground me and shift my focus to the changing season.
To me, this playlist feels like a crackling fire, a wool blanket, warm coffee, the scent of chilly air and leaves... ahhh, music is magical.
Autumnal Activities :
As we start to wind down from the rush of summer, it can be a good time to change habits and activities. The sun begins to set earlier and nights become longer. Naturally, this alters our sleep patterns, energy, and even interests. Embrace the change!
Farmer's Market Days ~
Visiting your local farmer's market is a wonderful thing to do all spring and summer as well. I personally love going at the beginning and into the fall as the produce changes along with the season. Cooler weather also makes for a more pleasant day outside.
Apples, pumpkins, squash, and corn are going to be abundant for the season! Score some seasonal produce and enjoy making something from scratch in the home.
Local Pumpkin Patch ~
Speaking of pumpkins... is there any better way to kick off the season than by picking out a perfect pumpkin?! Not to mention their versatility. Place them around the house as tribute to the incoming season, carve them into jack o' lanterns for Halloween, or bake something sweet.
Out with the Old ~
As nature transitions, so do our routines. As a good marker of the incoming season, I like to prep my closet. This may not necessarily be an exciting adventure, but it can make for a good start to the fall.
September is mostly a summer month, however it also holds the pivotal autumn equinox. At the beginning of the month, I like to pack away a few summer items and make room for those transitional pieces (think lightweight cardigans, mules/loafers, a long sleeve tee, etc.). I typically start by storing colors that no longer feel in season (such as bright hues) and introduce those softer, more earthy tones.
Clearing out what you no longer wear or enjoy is a wonderful way to start. Maybe you go beyond just your closet and do a 'fall cleaning.' Begin the season with a clean slate and make room for newness!
Self Care ~
The way we care for ourselves often changes when the season does, even if we aren't consciously aware of it. For the sake of remaining present, take action over your new routines. For example, taking care of yourself with exercise may transition from high intensity to something more gentle like Hatha yoga.
What we eat typically changes, too. Take note of your cravings and how you can incorporate new, seasonal fruits and veggies into your every day. I am personally so excited to try this recipe from Half Baked Harvest (because, yes, eating is a form of self care).
I don't have a long list of specifics for your self care routine because this differs so much from person-to-person and can be very personal. However, I do encourage you to dive into what feels good during each season, take note, and adapt based on where you are mentally, physically, and seasonally.
Fall Reads :
I put together a small list of books you might want to pick up this month or during this season. All of these I have read and loved, and for whatever reason, gave me that cozy fall feeling.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling
A Room of One's Own by Virginia Woolf
Victory Garden by Rhys Bowen
Words :
Before we part, I want to leave with a few of my most-loved sayings about this season. Autumn is so beloved by me and September feels extra special as it marks to first chapter in a series of wonderful months.
"Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall"
― F. Scott Fitzgerald
"And the sun took a step back, the leaves lulled themselves to sleep and autumn was awakened."
― Raquel Franco
"And all at once, summer collapsed into fall."
― Oscar Wilde
"Autumn burned brightly, a running flame through the mountains, a torch flung to to the trees."
― Faith Baldwin
Have a wonderful September!
xx,
Great advice and very inspiring. This is what I needed to read. Placing focus on the change of the season instead of the stresses of everyday life!
I’m inspired. On my way to clean and reorganize my closet now ✨