Autumn. That golden season when the air turns crisp, leaves rustle underfoot, and the world is awash in shades of orange and red. It's a time of transition, and with that, comes the need to tweak our routines to stay healthy, cosy, and balanced. Whether it’s switching up your meals or enhancing your bedding, here’s your guide to thriving through autumn with grace and comfort.

Food for Health: Nourish from the Harvest

Autumn is a season of abundance, with markets brimming with fresh produce perfect for warming, nourishing meals. It’s time to trade in the light salads of summer for heartier dishes that fuel us as the weather cools.

  1. Seasonal Vegetables for Strength: Pumpkins, butternut squash, and beetroots aren’t just pretty to look at; they’re packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Roast them, blend them into soups, or toss them in stews for a comforting meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
  2. Soups and Stews: Autumn is the perfect time to start simmering hearty soups and stews. Broths made from bones or vegetables provide hydration and nutrients, while adding lentils, beans, and root veg offers fibre and protein to keep you fuller for longer.
  3. Fermented Foods for Immunity: As we enter flu season, fermented foods like sauerkraut, kefir, and kimchi can support gut health, which in turn strengthens your immune system and helps keep colds at bay.

Update Your Skincare for Autumn: Prepare and Protect

Autumn’s cooler air and blustery winds can be tough on skin. The transition from summer’s humidity to autumn’s dry, crisp air requires some adjustments to keep your skin glowing and hydrated.

  1. Switch to a Nourishing Moisturiser: As temperatures drop, opt for richer creams that lock in moisture. Ingredients like shea butter and hyaluronic acid will help your skin stay hydrated as the dry air sets in. My current favourite is Aveeno Calm Restore + Oat Rich Balm for increased moisture without the greasiness.
  2. Sunscreen Still Matters: Even though the sun’s rays feel less intense, UV exposure remains a concern year-round. Make sure to keep applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against those sneaky autumn rays, especially if you're spending time outdoors.
  3. Gentle Exfoliation: As the cool air leads to dry skin, exfoliating helps slough off dead skin cells. However, opt for gentle exfoliants to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils, which are especially precious during this time of year.

Hydration: Autumn’s Quiet Essential

Autumn may not have the heat of summer, but cooler weather can be just as dehydrating—especially with the arrival of central heating, which can dry out your skin and throat.

  1. Warm Herbal Teas: Keep your hydration levels up with warm, soothing teas. Ginger, cinnamon, and chamomile teas not only hydrate but also offer anti-inflammatory properties that are perfect for soothing autumn sniffles.
  2. Humidify Your Space: With the heating on (especially hot air heating often found in offices), indoor air can become quite dry, contributing to skin dehydration and even respiratory discomfort. A humidifier can help add moisture back into the air, making your home more comfortable.

Updating Your Bedding: Get Cosy for Cooler Nights

As the temperatures drop, creating a warm and inviting bed becomes an essential part of your autumn routine. It’s time to trade out the light summer sheets for something a bit cosier.

  1. Layer Your Bedding: In autumn, layering is key. Start with a breathable fitted sheet, followed by a thermal blanket, and finish with a heavier duvet for those extra chilly nights. This allows you to adjust as the temperature fluctuates throughout the season.
  2. Opt for the Right Duvet: The Aeyla Air Duvet, made from sustainable eucalyptus fibres, is ideal for the autumn transition. Its breathable, temperature-regulating qualities ensure you stay warm without overheating—perfect for the crisp yet fluctuating autumn nights.
  3. Eucalyptus Silk Sheets for Luxury: For an extra touch of comfort, consider the Aeyla Eucalyptus Silk Sheet Set. These 100% eucalyptus fibre sheets are incredibly soft, moisture-wicking, and naturally hypoallergenic, making them the perfect addition to your autumn bedding. They’ll keep you cosy without making you too hot, ensuring a restful night’s sleep.

Conclusion: Embrace the Beauty of Autumn

Autumn is a season of transformation—one that invites us to slow down, cosy up, and nourish ourselves from the inside out. By adjusting your diet, skincare routine, hydration habits, and bedding, you can fully embrace the charm and beauty of autumn while staying healthy and comfortable. So, sip on that hot tea, slather on your rich moisturiser, and snuggle into those sumptuous eucalyptus sheets. Autumn wellness is all about embracing the season with warmth, vitality, and a little indulgence.