You may be clinging to those last glimmers of light. “WAIT!!!” You think…”It’s so dark already! I’m not ready for this!!” I understand your plight.
Some time around the end of August or beginning of September, I sense it. I notice the angle of the sun has shifted and shines differently than it did during the summer months. A smile comes across my face because I know the autumnal sun has arrived, my favorite time of year.
Now that October is in full force, you really start to notice that the daylight is dwindling faster and faster with each passing day and the bright, warm fall days are accompanied by much cooler nights. You may be clinging to those last glimmers of light. “WAIT!!!” You think…”I’m not ready!!” I understand your plight.
I am very sensitive to the changing seasons, especially when there is more darkness than light. You wake up in near darkness and by 5pm it’s dark again. There’s almost this sense of panic that you need to hurry up to finish your day’s dealings because as soon as the sun sets, so do you! But fear not!
There are many specific things you can do to honor the shift from the fall equinox to winter solstice by bringing the light and warmth into your home. Read on to find out more about how to get exactly the feeling you want this season for your particular space. But for now, here are a few tips to add fall into your home and prepare for the winter season ahead….
Shift your color palette…..
Much like when we do a deep spring cleaning, take some time to set the intention for your home for the fall and winter season. Start by packing away all the cotton and linen slip covers, throw pillows, throws and bedding in bright, light sun-kissed colors. Now is the time to bring in the nubby, soft fabrics in deep, rich jewel tones. A few well placed items will give you the feeling without overwhelming your space or your budget.
Stash the accessories…
The biggest mistake I see people make when they decorate for the season (regardless of the time of year or holiday) is they leave out all of their regular accessories put up their seasonal decor on top of them. Take the time to stow away anything that is specific to another season or is generic. You want a relatively clean palette to create your fun vignettes of seasonal delight!
Do a deep(ish) clean….
I know. No one likes to do more than one deep clean a year, but honestly this will help you set the stage for all the wonderful celebrations that lie ahead in these dark winter months. Once it’s done it’s done and you won’t have to think about it until spring again. Be mindful as you do this knowing you are infusing the light energy into your home as the darkness descends until Solstice arrives.
Bring in the outdoors….
If you don’t have a dedicated space for offerings or an altar, consider creating one. It is a lovely way to honor the current season and showcase the Earth’s gifts to us. Prepare shelf, ledge, small table or mantle and adorn it with items you collect on your walks or seasonal art your child brings home from school.
Bring in the light….
Light affects how we interact with color and our surroundings. Now that you will be inside more often and using artificial light, make sure all your lamps and fixtures provide quality light! Invest in energy efficient soft white light bulbs. They provide warm, pleasing light without harsh glares and shadows.
These are just a few ways to get that warm, cozy feeling you are wanting in you home as we shift the seasons . If you want to learn more tips and ideas on how to achieve this for your space, click here for my ebook, 7 Ways to Add Soul to Your Home Today!
