Sustainable earth-friendly self-care ideas to try this autumn

As the seasons change, treat autumn as an opportunity to rest and winddown. Here are 5 sustainable self-care ideas to help you transition into the colder months. Take care of yourself, while protecting the planet.

Published: 24 Sep 2024 | 3 minute read

As the leaves begin to fall and the days grow shorter, many of us can feel the seasonal shift in nature and within ourselves.

The darker days can be a time when when tough feelings like exhaustion and loneliness can intensify. And for people who care deeply about environmental issues, we’re more prone to feelings and experiences like eco-anxiety. When we feel like this, it’s really important to remember to take care of ourselves. But self-care doesn’t have to just benefit us, it can help our planet too.

1. Seasonal snacking and sipping

Autumn is a season of rich, comforting foods. Embrace the harvest by purchasing seasonal produce that supports local farmers, while reducing your carbon footprint. Shopping at local farmers' markets and eating in season helps reduce the demand for long-distance transportation of food.

Seasonal eating: incorporate root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots and pumpkins into your autumn diet. These hearty foods are filled with nutrients to support your immune system through the colder months – and they taste amazing.
Reusable cups: it’s always nice to treat yourself to a hot drink in the colder months. If you're a fan of pumpkin spice lattes or other seasonal drinks, don’t forget to use your reusable cup.

A stall of fresh fruit and vegetables with a sign saying they are certified organic — Organic fruit and veg stall

Credit: Kenny Eliason via Unsplash

2. Tend to the greenery in your home

Spring time isn’t the only time you can be green fingered. Autumn is a great opportunity to get out into your garden and create a sanctuary for local wildlife. The act of tending to your garden, or nurturing your indoor plants, will help you form a connection to the earth, reminding you of the cycles of rest and renewal that nature – and we – require.

Create log piles: by stacking up fallen branches and logs in a corner of your garden, you’ll be providing a safe haven for wildlife to hibernate in. These simple actions provide life-saving shelter for creatures in the colder months.
Leaf mulch: fallen leaves can really pile up in the colder months, but did you know you could gather them up and create leaf mulch? As they break down, they’ll be providing essential nutrients to your earth, keeping your soil nice and healthy.
Look after your indoor plants: when the seasons change, our indoor plants need that extra bit of love. See what’s needed to keep your indoor plants happy as the days grow darker. Consider adjusting placement to maximise light and changing how much water you give them.

House plants on a window sill

Credit: iStock

3. Get cosy and crafty

Autumn is a perfect time to embrace slow, mindful activities that engage your creativity while being eco-friendly. Crafting can bring a sense of comfort, especially when what you create benefits both you and your local environment.

Bird feeders: in the colder months, food becomes scarce for birds. You can DIY your own bird feeders from natural or upcycled materials. This is a great way to support them during autumn and winter. Consider using pinecones coated with peanut butter and rolled in birdseed, or DIY feeders made from hollowed-out oranges.
Textile projects: cosy up with a new knitting project like a scarf or blanket. Use sustainable yarns to support eco-conscious production methods and reduce microplastic pollution. Last year, our United for Warm Homes groups quilted blankets. Perhaps this year you could try your hand at something like knitting scarves for those in need. Purposeful crafting.

A close up of a woman's hand sewing detail onto a patch — Sewing quilt squares together.

Credit: Karis Beaumont

4. Treat your self to homemade face masks

Autumn’s cooler, drier air can leave your skin feeling dry. Facemask can help. Instead of buying facemasks from stores, you can make your own at home using ingredients from your cupboards.

Oat and apple mask: oats are known for soothing irritated skin, while apples are a natural exfoliant. Combine them with honey for a hydrating, brightening mask.
Pumpkin face mask: pumpkins are plentiful in autumn and packed with vitamins. Mix pureed pumpkin with honey and yogurt for a nourishing and hydrating mask.

5. Preparing for brighter days

If you’re the type of person that likes to look forward, consider preparing for the brighter months. You can sow seeds now, which’ll bloom into life in spring.

Plant spring bulbs: plants like daffodils, tulips and crocuses all need to be planted in autumn to bloom in spring. Make sure you pick organic or heirloom bulbs – this way your garden will be supporting biodiversity and local ecosystems.
Sow wildflower seeds: if you have space, sprinkle some wildflower seeds. This’ll encourage pollinators like bees and butterflies next spring.

Plant seeds in mason jars — Seeds in mason jars

Credit: Eco Warrior Princess via Unsplash

Autumn is a season that invites us to slow down, reflect and reconnect with ourselves and the natural world.

By integrating planet-friendly self-care practices, you can look after yourself and the Earth. From preparing your garden for winter to enjoying seasonal foods, each action is a reminder that sustainable living is about finding balance within yourself.