fall has a way of creeping up on us, doesn’t it? one moment, it’s 90 degrees, the sun is blazing, and we’re living in sundresses and sandals. the next, there’s a crispness in the air, and suddenly, everything is pumpkin-flavored. but fall isn’t just about seasonal lattes and cozy sweaters (though i am all about both). it’s also the perfect time to rethink your wellness routine and stock up on essentials that help you transition smoothly into this slower, cozier season.
here’s my rundown of the ultimate wellness essentials for fall, from skincare to mental health to everything in between.
1. a rich, hydrating moisturizer
let’s start with the skin, because if you’ve ever felt the sting of dry air on your face, you know that fall can be brutal for your skin barrier. as the humidity drops, it’s time to switch out those lightweight summer moisturizers for something a bit more substantial. think thick, creamy, and deeply hydrating.
look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and squalane to keep your skin plump and protected from the cooler, drier air. and don’t forget your body—your elbows, knees, and hands will thank you for the extra love.
2. herbal teas (for all the vibes)
there’s something about fall that makes me want to slow down and sip on something warm. if you're trying to cut down on caffeine, or just want to create a cozy little ritual for yourself, herbal teas are where it’s at.
my personal faves? peppermint for digestion, chamomile for winding down in the evenings, and ginger-turmeric to keep inflammation in check as the colder weather starts creeping in. plus, let’s be real—there’s nothing more fall than wrapping your hands around a steaming mug, am i right?
3. vitamin d (because the sun starts ghosting us)
as the days get shorter, our bodies stop getting the sunlight we need to produce enough vitamin d. this deficiency can sneak up on you in the form of fatigue, mood swings, and even a weakened immune system. it’s no wonder that seasonal affective disorder (SAD) hits hardest in the fall and winter.
if you live somewhere that doesn’t get a ton of sunlight, it’s a good idea to supplement with vitamin d or get more foods rich in it (think salmon, mushrooms, and fortified cereals). your energy and mood will be all the better for it, trust me.
4. cozy layers (but make them breathable)
okay, so this isn’t just about looking cute in chunky sweaters—though that’s definitely a bonus. as the temps fluctuate (hello, freezing mornings and warm afternoons), layering becomes your best friend. breathable, natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and cashmere keep you warm without making you overheat, and they’re perfect for staying comfortable no matter how much the weather swings.
plus, embracing cozy layers can have a surprising effect on your mental health. there's something about physically wrapping yourself in comfort that signals it’s time to slow down and embrace the season's calm.
5. magnesium for better sleep
with fall comes darker evenings, cooler nights, and for some reason—more restless sleep. it’s like our bodies are stuck in between seasons and can’t quite figure out how to settle down. enter: magnesium.
magnesium is a natural relaxant that helps with everything from muscle tension to improving sleep quality. you can take it as a supplement (magnesium glycinate is my personal go-to), or get it from foods like leafy greens, almonds, and pumpkin seeds—super on-brand for fall, right?
6. grounding routines
if there’s one thing fall is good for, it’s the gentle nudge to slow down and get grounded. the busyness of summer is behind us, and before we head into the holiday whirlwind, it’s the perfect time to establish some calming rituals.
maybe it’s a 10-minute meditation in the morning, a weekly yoga session, or even a simple journaling practice where you jot down your thoughts or reflect on the changing season. the goal? to carve out a little time each day for yourself, something that helps you stay rooted even as the world (and the weather) shifts around you.
7. adaptogens for stress support
we can’t talk about fall wellness without acknowledging the sneaky stress that creeps in. work tends to ramp up, social calendars start to fill, and the lead-up to the holidays can leave us feeling a bit frazzled.
adaptogens like ashwagandha, reishi, and rhodiola are nature’s answer to stress support. these herbs have been used for centuries to help the body adapt to stress, and incorporating them into your routine can be a game-changer for staying balanced during the season. whether you prefer them in tinctures, teas, or supplements, adaptogens can give your nervous system the little extra love it needs to stay calm and collected.
8. immune boosters (because, you know, fall colds)
we all know fall is when colds and flus start making their rounds. before you find yourself with a scratchy throat and stuffy nose, stock up on some immune-boosting essentials. elderberry syrup, vitamin c, and echinacea are great ways to strengthen your defenses as the weather cools.
also, don’t sleep on the power of regular movement and staying hydrated. even as the air gets crisper and the days shorter, staying active and drinking enough water are key to keeping your immune system strong.
fall is a transitional season, a time to embrace change and slow down. it’s a chance to reflect, realign, and build new habits that nurture you inside and out. by incorporating these wellness essentials into your daily routine, you can keep your mind, body, and spirit grounded as the world turns to a new chapter.
so here’s to the cozy, the calm, and the little things that make us feel good this fall.
🌹🌻🌸💐💚💜❤️🌼😍🥰
thank you so much for your article! i'm on the mediterannean so it's still quite summer here but i've already started brewing tea for my colder nights and oh my god i can't waiiiiit !!!!!