As Anne Shirley so perfectly said, Octobers bring something special. It only takes one step outside right now to see just how amazingly beautiful our little part of the world is. The air is crisp, the leaves are storybook colors, and the golden peeks of sunlight feel like autumn’s small reminders of the invitation to slow down, reflect and reconnect this season. In a world of stress, chaos and overwhelmingness, there are also peaceful country landscapes, pumpkins abounding and the reminders that no matter what, the harvest does come. Aren’t we lucky to be living in the season of October?
As we welcome the gifts of the season, we also come into these next weeks of celebration around Halloween. Then comes the transition to November that often feel like a farewell to fall and welcome to winter, making this a natural time to reset our mind, body and spirit, embracing the balance of doing, being and even celebrating!
Seasonal shifts are more than just changes in weather—they serve as natural reset points for our bodies, minds, and spirits. Fall, especially, calls us to embrace balance. As nature begins to rest, we too can benefit from grounding routines, intentional rest, and meaningful connection.
Halloween may have some connotations with it, but perhaps this year we decide it’s not that serious, and embrace it as a chance to have fun, benchmark the season and lift our spirits and others! Whether you are a self-proclaimed introvert or someone who loves to be out and about, these coming days are a chance to get out there, spread kindness and savor the season.
If you are missing Halloween, the dressing up, the songs, the fun, we have a simple and easy solution: come to The Wellness Center. We have a whole week of activities that range from Halloween playlists to themed workouts and even trivia and prizes. There’s no reason adults can’t enjoy a little festive fun. Starting Monday at 5:15pm with a Totally Spooktacular Tonetastic, followed by 6:15 pm A Very Happy Halloween All Star Workout. Zumba® classes Tuesday and Thursday at 5:15pm are for anyone to join who wants to dance to favorites like Monster Mash, Thriller and even some songs you might not know like: The Martian Hop! This Saturday, at The Wellness Center’s PINK Party Drums Alive Fundraiser at 8:30 am, which is raising money (by donation) for the NCH Oncology Fund for Breast Cancer Awareness is a double mix of fun because you will have a chance to give back to your community in need, and Drum to songs like: The Purple People Eater and More. Of course, some classes will have costume contests and prizes. Stop in!
Not ready to join the group fitness party? Get outside! Make it your new Halloween or October tradition to crunch in the leaves in a new place! From bike paths to walking trails, there are ample places to soak in the foliage, making hiking, biking, and walking a perfect way to enjoy some peace and invigoration. Even better, invite someone! Sure, we all love alone time, but connecting is so important and you may just make someone’s day by helping them feel seen and included by inviting them along.
Another great way to unwind is to read seasonal books. A psychological thriller or even books set in New England are even more captivating this time of year. Make it extra special though, light a candle, get out your favorite blanket, think of the perfect warm drink such as spiced apple tea or maybe even a decaf pumpkin latte, and perhaps listen to special music before or after too. Having a date with a good book, a little ambiance and a warm drink makes this a celebration – you can invite friends too! Why not, no need to plan anything else, they will bring their own book, and maybe even a snack to share!
Speaking of snacks, there’s nothing more nostalgic than Halloween candy and flavors of fall. Why not enjoy them this year? Here are some fun ideas:
- Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding:
1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or milk of your choice) , ¼ cup chia seeds, ½ cup pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup/maple syrup flavoring. Mix in small jars and chill overnight. You can also add nuts, oats, etc. - Halloween Fun Crunch:
Mix 1 cup Quick Cook Oats,1/4 cup chopped nuts, 1 tbsp. melted coconut oil, ¼ tsp. cinnamon, and a light drizzle of honey/maple syrup and baked at 350 until golden. While baking chop up your favorite Halloween treats and then top as soon as the granola is out of the oven. This is a fun way to have some candy, and all of the fiber and nutrients! - Creamy Date Bites:
Stuff pitted dates with low-fat cream cheese and a drizzle of honey, then sprinkle with crushed walnuts. Sweet, filling, and full of fiber. You’ll love this!
If Halloween feels overwhelming, too much sugar, social stress, or unrealistic expectations, you aren’t alone. Why not take 10 quiet minutes to journal: What is bothering me about Halloween this year? What would make it more enjoyable? What small changes can I still make to improve it? Self- awareness isn’t a pity party, it gives us power and then the permission to perhaps change the narrative. There’s still time to make this month your own!
October reminds us that change is beautiful. It’s okay to slow down, shift priorities, and savor the season with intention. Use these October days and the upcoming holiday to build in movement, reflection, and mindful joy, because we really are lucky to live in a world where there are Octobers.