Autumn Musings

Chinese proverb says "Be not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid only of standing still."

Nestled within the heart of Mother Nature's embrace lies an eternal truth—a rhythm of transformation that reverberates through every living being. Like the Earth gracefully dances through its seasons, so too do we undergo our own evolution, unfolding with the passing of time.

Amid the hustle and bustle of everyday living - between family, work, friends, daily commitments - we must all take a moment to breathe, pause, reflect, slow down and become immersed within the present moment. Take note of life's little wonders. Savour the ordinary.

Look outside and observe how nature, she also slows down as autumn sets in - the leaves slowly and ever so gently dance from the trees, flowers slow down their bloom and so does the new shoots of life.

Let the autumn transformation inspire you to slow down. Autumn is a time to nourish your mind-body-soul. It is a time to tune-inwards and nurture within.

Farewell habits, commitments and people that no longer serve you well. Get offline and out into nature. And when your body is feeling the call, give yourself permission to hibernate; whether that be to stay home and plant bulbs in your garden or to curl up on the lounge, sip a hot drink and read the day away.

Autumn is the season that invites you to slow down and savour the yin energy. It is a time to appreciate the harvest and reflect on the learnings of the past and how to expand for the year ahead.

Let us align with Autumn by intentionally slowing down and embarking on a seasonal story, a musing, woven with the threads of autumn's enchantment. Where, amidst the vibrant tapestry of changing hues, resides a woman deeply connected to the rhythm of nature.

As the landscape dresses itself in the warm colours of Autumn, she finds herself drawn to the serene beauty of the season. Where she spends many of her Autumn days in her garden tending to the earth with love, appreciation and nurture, celebrating life's simple treasures and embracing the gratitude found in each harvest gathered.

With the sun dipping low on the horizon, casting a golden glow upon the land, she accepts the gentle call to slow down and savour life's unhurried pace. Amidst the symphony of rustling leaves and the crisp embrace of the morning air, she discovers solace in the rhythm of her own breath—a gentle reminder to stay grounded and fully present in each passing moment.

So, come join her on this enchanting journey through the whispers of autumn. Take a moment to slow down, make a cup of hot tea, cosy on up in a big chair and get lost in this seasonal musing. Where together you and her will navigate the ever-changing landscape of life's transitions, finding comfort and joy in the simple pleasures that interweave along the way. This Autumn musing is also available in a free audio if you would prefer to listen over reading.

Now, visualize a quaint and charming cottage nestled amongst a grove of majestic oak trees and Japanese maples. The air is filled with the earthy hues of autumn, with leaves painted in shades of red, orange, copper, gold, and brown. A soft fog hugs the roof of the cottage, while birds sing melodiously in the surrounding trees.

Through the window of the cottage,  a warm fire crackles in the fireplace, casting a gentle glow throughout the room. A contented cat sits on the windowsill, basking in the warmth, while a woman relaxes in a plush winged-back armchair by the fire, wrapped in a cosy blanket.

Invite yourself to fully immerse yourself in this tranquil scene, feel yourself being drawn deeper into a state of peace and serenity. Allow the gentle ambiance of the cottage to lull you into a state of relaxation, where worries fade away and self-restoration beckons like a gentle embrace. 

Autumn holds a cherished place in her heart, its essence weaving a tranquil tapestry that whispers of beauty and renewal. Seated by the window, she observes nature's grand transformation, each leaf a stroke of vibrant colour on the canvas of her world. Draped in a loose sweater, cradling a mug of hot chocolate, and enveloped in the comforting scent of chai-spiced candles, she finds solace in the words of Lauren DeStefano. 

"Autumn is the time when everything bursts with its last beauty, as if nature had been saving up all year for the grand finale," As she re-reads the words of Destefano , they echo through her, as her entire being sighs in agreement.

As the days gradually shorten and the nights cool, the transition from the warmth of summer to the cosiness of autumn begins. For her, it's a time of shifting comforts, as lightweight summer dresses are replaced by layers of warmth. Scarves, sweaters, and cosy socks become her cherished companions, providing comfort as she steps outside to embrace foggy mornings, the crispness of the air and the golden glow of the landscape. The earthy tones of Autumn clothing become a canvas for her self-expression, a celebration of the art of layering.

Echoing within the serene presence of Mother Nature, the sight of leaves cascading to the ground and the sound of rustling trees serve as reminders of life's cycles and rhythms.

In honour of simple living and the art of paring down, her intention is to find joy in the wonder of Autumn and the beauty that is found in living alongside the seasons of the year. For this simple treasure of life is often forgotten as the grind of daily modern life at times can disconnect her from her own true nature and the natural rhythm of life.

As the world outside undergoes its annual transformation, nature becomes a sanctuary of tranquillity. Parks and forests turn into vibrant displays of autumn beauty, inviting her to take leisurely walks, meditate and live in alignment with the seasonal cycles of Mother Nature.

On sunny Autumn days, she likes to start her day when the sun rises, getting outdoors and only coming inside for a pot of tea or to begin her afternoon wind-down ritual. 

With each passing day, she admires how nature's brush strokes paint a new masterpiece, transforming the landscape into a tapestry of colour and life. It is a time of transition, a moment of pause before the world prepares for its winter slow down.

In the heart of autumn, there is a quiet beauty that whispers through the rustling leaves and dances upon the breeze. The trees, once adorned in shades of green, now flaunt their finest attire of red, orange, and gold. With each step on her morning walk, the ground beneath her feet becomes a symphony of crunching leaves, a gentle reminder of the ever-changing circle of life.

As she watches the leaves dance in the autumn breeze and feels the earth beneath her feet, she is filled with gratitude for the beauty of the season and the opportunities it brings. Autumn may be fleeting, but its impact always lingers for the year ahead, reminding her to cherish each moment and embrace the magic of new beginnings

Just as the earth prepares for winter, she readies her home for the colder months. Bringing out cosy blankets, lighting candles, stacking books, journals and pens by her bedside table, moving indoor plants to sunny windows, and doing daily rituals that welcome autumn's spirit indoors. Her home becomes a sanctuary of comfort, a place of retreat and restoration where she can embrace the season's magic.  

As she reflects on what makes autumn so enchanting, she realises it is more than just the changing colours or the cosy sweaters and scarves—it is the feeling of renewal and possibility that fills the air. While she cherishes the arrival of spring, there is a unique sense of sweetness that only Autumn can bring. Autumn ushers in a yin energy, inviting her to retreat, restore, and reflect on the beauty of life's ever-changing seasons. 

Or Perhaps it is the magic in the transformation of the world around her, a deeper connection to Earth Goddess Gaia, as nature paints the landscape in rich hues of ruby red, golden amber, and russet brown. Maybe it is the slowing of time as she carves out quietness to watch each leaf dance in the gentle breeze, a vibrant testament to the passage of time and the beauty of change.

Maybe it is the silent language of the trees and the secrets that they hod. Birds chirping and fluttering amongst the branches under the warmth of the midday sun as they fluff up their nests for the cooler night ahead. Chirping, playing and singing songs in a language that only the heart can understand. Meanwhile, a kaleidoscope of colourful leaves gracefully fall to the ground, as mother nature whispers stories of seasons past and dreams yet to unfold.

Or is it in the gentle rhythm of raindrops against the windowpane, a soothing melody that fills the air with a sense of peace and tranquillity. Wrapped in cosy sweaters and soft scarves, there is a quiet joy in simply being present, in listening to the gentle patter of rain as it falls upon the earth.

Autumn is an invitation to slow down and fall in love with life all over again. There's a certain magic in the air during the season, a feeling of warmth, cosiness, stillness, harmony and joy.

For her, autumn was more than just a change in the weather; it was a return to familiar routines, a comforting rhythm that grounded her amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. It was a time to retreat indoors, to trade beach reads for novels that required a bit more thought, and to indulge in the simple pleasure of simmering soups, hot bread and vegetable stews that nourished both body and soul.

In the heart of Autumn, she found a beauty that transcended words—a deep connection to something greater than herself. It was a time to slow down, to savour the simple moments, and to find comfort in the embrace of the season. As the leaves whispered their secrets and the rain continued its gentle song, she surrenders to the enchantment of Autumn, allowing its warmth to wash over her like a comforting embrace.

Autumn is a season of abundance, especially when it comes to food. The harvest brings forth an abundance of soulful flavours and seasonal delights – from the sweetness of apples to the earthiness of pumpkins, beetroot, kale and the warmth of cinnamon and spices. For her, preparing and sharing these dishes is a celebration of the season, a way to indulge in comfort food and soul-soothing meals that nourish both body and soul.

With the graceful transformation of the world outside, autumn invites her to turn inward. The quieter moments become more precious, whether it's curling up with a book by the fireplace, taking a walk-in nature, journaling, or simply gazing out of a window as the rain taps gently against the glass. These moments of reflection become an integral part of her autumn experience, allowing her to connect more deeply with herself and the world around her.

Autumn engages all her senses, creating a multisensory experience that captivates her entire being. The scent of bonfires and apple orchards fill the air, evoking memories, and nostalgia. The touch of a cool breeze against her skin connects her more deeply with Earth Goddess Gaia, while the taste of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and seasonal treats offers a culinary journey that reminds her of high tea outings and Autumn train rides with her grandma Jessie.

A muse for artists, photographers, writers, and creatives alike. The Autumn interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant colours of foliage, and the unique atmospheric quality of the season offers endless inspiration. Whether through the lens of a camera or the stroke of a paintbrush, she seeks to capture and embody the essence of autumn – its fleeting beauty and the emotions it evokes.

In the tender embrace of Autumn, a whispered secret drifts delicately through the air, captivating the hearts of those who pause to listen. It carries with it a unique enchantment, stirring the soul with its gentle presence.

Autumn extends an invitation to express gratitude for the seeds sown and the abundant harvests grown throughout the year. It prompts reflection on the full storehouses and the nourishment provided to sustain life. The rituals of the Autumn harvest—collecting flower seeds, planting bulbs, preserving quince, and drying lavender—all serve as gentle reminders of life's simple luxuries and evoke a sense of gratitude for all that has been received.

It is a season that invites a restful contemplation of the new opportunities and experiences that have blossomed over the year. It encourages deep appreciation for the wisdom gained and the soul's nourishment from these experiences. As the earth prepares to rest under the cooler embrace, her soul invites her slow down, tune inward and savour the space.

The earlier setting of the sun serves as a gentle reminder to live at a slower, more deliberate pace. It prompts her to prioritize rest and to allow life to nurture and love her, rather than her constantly trying to find joy, success and happiness in chasing, achieving and striving. 

Within her garden, she witnesses the reciprocal love of life reflected in the vibrant colours of the leaves and the messages carried by the wind. The flourishing finale of her Dahlia's is a testament to this natural harmony.

The misty breath in the crisp morning air serves as a sacred reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of mindfulness. It encourages her to slow down and to fully embrace each moment with mindful presence.

The gentle Autumn wind whispers reminders to release past regrets and let go of self-sabotaging habits. It urges her to simplify her life, creating space for rest, renewal, and the pursuit of what truly matters.

During the Autumn months, she commits herself to wandering through the golden fields of acceptance, grace, and gratitude. She savours the simple joys of life and offers prayers to Mother Nature, to the sun, to the moon, to the stars, and to the entire universe, seeking permission to pause and embrace the little luxuries that Autumn gifts her with.

It is a season for laying the foundations for an abundant harvest in the coming year—learning from past mistakes and building upon successes.

It is a season where her days are bookended by a hot bath, some lavender aromatherapy, and a short meditation before preparing dinner.

There is no more comforting ritual for her than welcoming the day’s end, with the aroma of something delicious, slowly cooking on the stove, whilst admiring the golden colours of the setting sun out her kitchen window.

There is a voice within her that always speaks to her at the end of the day. It gently whispers “Slow right down, settle and rest. All is safe and well in your sanctum.  Savour the evening, and rest well for the opportunities of tomorrow”.

Do you have a gentle voice that speaks to you at the unwinding of another day? If so what does it whisper to you? If not, make the intention to find something that quietens you enough to hear it speak to you.

As she unwinds into the evening in a hot bath by candlelight, she sips her nightly cup of warm chai and is reminded how Autumn's arrival is a time for her to reflect on life's cyclical nature, the ebbs and flows…. and express appreciation for all its blessings.

Crawling into bed, the light of the full moon shines into her bedroom and kisses her skin, reminding her to look outside and take a moment to admire the Autumn night sky. Looking up at the stars, getting lost within the vastness of all that space, the universe gently whispers to her, reminding  her to value the lessons each season brings. For it is a time to count her blessings, and express gratitude for the experiences that have shaped her.

The changing of the seasons is more than just a change in weather; it's a shift in perspective. It's a reminder to embrace the beauty of every phase of life, to find wonder in everyday moments, and to savour the simple joys that surround us.

As the leaves continue to fall outside her bedroom window under the Autumns night sky, the canvas of her world continues to transform and expand, whilst she prepares to welcome an enchanting autumn's night with a full and open heart.

Pulling the blankets up around her chin, and cozing on down in her comfortable bed. She takes a final look at the Autumn night sky – admiring the blanket of stars that  twinkle, wink and calm her to sleep. Falling into calmness. Falling into oneness. Falling into the magic. Falling into the wonder. Her entire body smiles and embraces the artistry of Mother Nature that surrounds her and she marvels at the beauty of the changing seasons, and she takes a moment to reflect and honour her own sacred journey.

Cherishing each moment, knowing that like the leaves that dance upon the evening breeze, her time on this earth is precious and magical. And as she drifts off to sleep, the gentle embrace of autumn wraps itself around her like a comforting blanket, reminding her that even in the midst of change and chaos, there is always beauty to be found. Reminding her that amongst the ordinary there can always be found the extra-ordinary.

Wrapped in the warmth of autumn's embrace, falling into a dreamy realm, where the whispers of rustling leaves and gentle rain lull her into a restorative sleep.

Drifting deeper and deeper,  surrendering to the magic of the season, finding solace in its tranquil embrace.

In the quiet of the night, amidst the crisp autumn air, she finds her own sanctuary in a nest of cosiness, retreating from the business of daily life into a deep healing restorative sleep.

Resting….falling…..falling….into a dreamy realm where peace, space, stillness, restoration, self-reflection and serenity await.