10 Cozy Fall Habits I’m Incorporating

Fall is a season of transition—a time to slow down, reflect, and embrace the cozy, comforting vibes that come with cooler weather and shorter days. After the hectic pace of summer, it’s important to take a step back, re-evaluate, and prioritize self-care. For me, this shift isn’t just about pumpkin spice lattes (although I’m not complaining!)—it’s about creating space to recharge, simplify, and re-organize my life so that I can move into the new season with clarity and ease.

Here are 10 ways I’m adjusting my routines, home, and mindset to fully embrace the fall transition and set myself up for a happier, less stressful season.

1. More Journaling and Self-Reflection

Fall is a season of reflection. The natural shift of energy as the days grow shorter offers the perfect opportunity to turn inward. I’ve found that journaling helps me process my thoughts, track my personal growth, and reconnect with my goals. This practice is grounding, especially during times of change, and gives me clarity about what I want to achieve for the remainder of the year.

Some journaling prompts I’m focusing on right now are:

• What are three things I want to let go of this season?

• What do I want to cultivate more of in my daily life?

• What habits are no longer serving me?

If you’re new to journaling, start small. Even five minutes in the morning or evening can help clear your mind and reduce stress.

2. Slower Mornings: Reading in Bed

As the days get chillier, I’m giving myself permission to enjoy slower mornings. Instead of jumping out of bed and rushing into the day, I’m savoring the comfort of reading in bed for a little while. Whether it’s diving into a good book, reading an article, or simply flipping through a magazine, this gentle start to the day helps me feel more centered and ready to tackle whatever comes next.

This intentional slower pace is a great way to ground myself and prevent burnout. It’s amazing what a few extra moments of calm can do for my mindset.

3. Warm & Cozy Fall Foods, Scents, and Activities

Nothing says fall like cozy foods and comforting scents. From slow-cooked stews to baking warm apple pies, this season is all about indulging in the warmth of home-cooked meals. Cooking becomes a meditative, joyful activity rather than a rushed chore, and I’m embracing it with open arms.

At the same time, I’m filling my home with fall-inspired scents like cinnamon, vanilla, and cedarwood. Whether through candles or essential oils, these scents instantly create a calming atmosphere that makes my space feel like a sanctuary. And, of course, I’m adding seasonal activities like apple picking and autumn walks to soak up all that this season has to offer.

4. Tying Up Projects & Leveling-Up My Systems

With the year’s end in sight, fall is also the perfect time to tie up loose ends. Whether it’s completing projects I’ve been procrastinating on or reevaluating my workflows, I’m making it a priority to level up my systems. Simplifying and organizing things now reduces stress down the road and sets me up for success as I head into the busy holiday season.

This isn’t just about work—this applies to personal life as well. For me, cleaning up my systems means decluttering my workspace, setting clearer goals, and automating tasks to free up time for the things I really enjoy.

5. More Indoor Workouts (But Hopefully Not Less Walking Outside)

With the weather turning colder, I’m naturally gravitating towards more indoor workouts. Whether it’s yoga, strength training, or Pilates, I’m keeping my body moving in ways that feel good. However, I’m also making it a point to continue my daily outdoor walks, even as the temperatures drop.

There’s something so refreshing about fall walks—crunching leaves underfoot, the crisp air, and the beautiful changing colors. Walking outside isn’t just a workout for me; it’s a form of meditation, a chance to clear my head and reset.

6. Slow Downs & Simple Pleasures

Fall is the perfect season to embrace slow living and savor life’s simple pleasures. I’m carving out time for activities that bring me joy, like lighting candles, curling up with a cozy blanket, and taking nature walks to admire the changing leaves. I’m also leaning into the sounds and smells of fall—whether it’s listening to the rain or the comforting smell of a wood-burning fireplace.

These small moments of calm and mindfulness help me stay grounded in the present, allowing me to enjoy the season fully without getting overwhelmed by the pace of life.

7. Redesigning My Work Routine

Fall also marks a change in my work routine. With the new season comes new responsibilities and projects, so I’m taking the time to adjust how I work. For me, this means creating clearer boundaries between work and home life to ensure I’m not carrying stress into my personal time.

This week, I’m refining my teaching schedule and determining the best times to work in the classroom versus remotely. By doing this, I’m setting myself up for a more balanced work routine that supports both my professional and personal well-being.

8. Stocking the Comfort Shelves

Another way I’m embracing fall is by stocking what I like to call my “comfort shelves.” This includes cozy essentials like candles, tea, hot chocolate, and warm blankets—everything I need to create a calming, soothing environment. I even make sure I have a stash of my favorite chocolates for when I need a little treat!

Having these comfort items on hand makes a world of difference in how I experience my space, turning it into a retreat where I can fully relax.

9. More Consistent Moisturizing Routines

With the cooler, drier weather, my skincare routine is also changing. I’m focusing on keeping my skin hydrated by using more moisturizing products and applying them consistently. This small act of self-care feels like a luxury and helps me feel refreshed and nourished.

10. Organize the “Eyes” of Your Home and Office

Finally, I’m focusing on organizing the key areas—or “eyes”—of my home and office. These are the spaces I use most often, like the kitchen, my desk, and the bathroom. Keeping these areas tidy and functional helps reduce stress and makes my daily routines run more smoothly.

For example, I’ve been rearranging my kitchen to make sure everything I use regularly is within easy reach, eliminating unnecessary steps. This makes cooking and meal prep less stressful and more enjoyable. Similarly, I’m keeping my office organized so that when work gets busy, I don’t feel overwhelmed by clutter.

Fall is a season that invites us to slow down, reflect, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. By making small adjustments to my routine, home, and mindset, I’m setting myself up for a smoother, more enjoyable season. Whether it’s through journaling, cozying up with a good book, or redesigning my work routine, these changes are helping me stay grounded and reduce stress as I transition into the fall months.

What changes are you making this season to embrace the coziness and calm of fall? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!