5 Ways to Treat Yourself this Autumn
Summer’s over and winter is coming (cue Game of Thrones intro). The longer, darker days can really take a toll on your emotional health, so if there were ever a time for a pick-me- up, it’s now.
Here are a few things you can do in Columbus this fall to boost your mood, enjoy the nice weather, and explore the city.
1. MAKE YOUR OWN MULLED WINE
Forget the PSL and its zillion grams of sugar (only slightly exaggerating: a grande has 50 grams of sugar, according to the Starbucks website). Mulled wine, a favorite autumn drink, gives you a buzz and a health boost, thanks to its dry red wine component. The tannins in red wine are supposed to improve your heart’s health, so you can drink and be merry!
Here’s an easy mulled wine recipe. Best served at Halloween parties or when sipped while cuddling with your significant other.
2. GO FOR A SPONTANEOUS WALK
When you exercise, your brain releases endorphins – those feel-good chemicals that make you feel like you can get through anything: election season, a stressful day at work or a hangover.
This fall, make it a point to go for a walk outside when you need to unwind. You’ll get to enjoy the weather, spend some time with your thoughts, explore your neighborhood, and reap the benefits of exercising. Win-win.
3. TRY A NEW FALL ACTIVITY
Never been to a corn maze or pumpkin patch? Have yet to go on a hayride? Never experienced a Haunted Lantern Tour with the Columbus Landmarks Foundation? Time to get on that.
Fall activities like these are popular for a reason – they can be surprisingly fun. You’ll meet people, learn more about the city, and experience something new. Put an activity on your October to-do list, and it might just become a yearly tradition.
4. CHECK OUT THE FARMERS MARKET
There are farmers markets all over the city, from Clintonville to the North Market, and the produce around this time of year is delicious: fresh apples, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, figs, and squash. Spend an afternoon talking to the vendors and learning about how your food was made and brought to you.
Best of all, there are endless ways to prepare your farmers market spoils, so look for a new recipe that incorporates your finds. You’ll feel accomplished for stretching your culinary skills, and you can feel good knowing your purchase helped the local economy.
5. HAVE A SPA DAY
The drop in temperature and the brisk wind can make this season a little tough on your skin. An easy way to restore your skin to its summertime glory? Stop in for a facial, and while you’re here, get a massage, too (we recommend trying Ashiatsu).
We can customize your facial to help you achieve your skincare goals with organic masks and specialized treatments. No matter what you choose, you’ll leave with visibly radiant, healthier skin.
As for the massage, well, is there anything more relaxing than a skilled masseuse working the knots from your shoulders and back? It’s good for the mind and body.