Five Fall Comforting Indulgences

Today, I’m offering Five Fall Comforting Indulgences for you to consider. Cool, autumn temps encourage a mindset of coziness and warmth. Scandinavian countries familiar with cold weather and shorter daylight hours name this concept “hygge.” (pronounced “hoo-guh”) Although it is difficult to find a direct translation, the term is associated with coziness, gratitude and well-being; an invitation to enjoy life’s quieter, simple pleasures. We are reminded to set aside time to take care of ourselves and the people we love most. Hygge wraps us in a literal and figurative hug. As chilly weather sets, in, what better time to intentionally add elements of comfort into our daily lifestyle.

1. Fireside Pleasures

The first on my list of Five Fall Comforting Indulges is fireside pleasure. For my family, the dip in temps has us anticipating a crackling fire in the fireplace. There’s an earthy magic in stacking logs for the first fire of the season. The sound, flickering light and heat emitted from the firebox are the first links in a chain of familiar fall rituals. The weather is also perfect for outdoor campfires. Chilly, starlit evenings are spectacular for conversations under the constellations, as well as the ultimate excuse for toasting marshmallows!

If you don’t have a fireplace in your home or lawn area for an outdoor pit, seek out a restaurant that offers a fireside dining or outdoor propane heaters. There are also portable table-top propane devices available for purchase which emulate a fireplace vibe. If open flame is not your style, you can also opt for the country-vibe of an electric fireplace. Whatever choice you make, the tension between a chilly evening and a radiating envelope of warmth makes for the perfect autumn experience.

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2. Scents of the Season

Next on the list of Five Fall Comforting Indulgences are candles and stovetop simmers. They will fill your home with the spicy scents of autumn. Depending on the fragrance profile you choose, you can set the seasonal tone of your choice: think of birch forests and crisp fall apples, conjure a spooky All Hallows Eve with patchouli undertones, or delight in luscious bakery aromas of snickerdoodle and apple pie. Great fragrance choices for this time of year are: vanilla, brown sugar, bourbon, cinnamon, apple, pear, cranberry, evergreen, pumpkin spice, mahogany, teak, sandalwood and smokey fireside scents. Wooden wick candles are also a fun choice; especially if you don’t have access to a fireplace. Wooden wicks add that fireside crackle, are visually appealing, and throw fragrance really well.

Not only do candles and stovetop simmers add signature scent to autumn days, they also provide other sensory benefits. Flickering candlelight generates a cozy, romantic feel and simmering spice water humidifies dry, chilly air.

Below, are links to a couple of favorite fall scented simmers:

Holiday Fragrance Simmer
Pumpkin Spice Project (This is a larger project, but there is a lovely simmer component to it – with a delicious pumpkin spice muffin recipe included!)

3. Sweater Weather

Number three on the list of Five Fall Comforting Indulgences goes without saying: Pulling out sweaters and scarves is an annual fall tradition here in the northeast. Oversized, soft knits in neutral colors are my favorite. They are perfect for both lounging and heading out to the pumpkin patch. I love full, bulky scarves that wrap around my neck in a billowy cocoon of nubby knit. Whether you prefer woolen wear, cashmere, or cotton; there is a sweater or scarf texture out there that is made just for you; and you should indulge in it; if only for the simple pleasure of how it makes you feel. If you lean toward neutral colors, you can get a lot of wear out of a sweater or scarf by styling it in different combinations with other clothing.

I’m currently intrigued by alpaca knits; there are a few alpaca farms near me that offer handmade goods. I love the idea of purchasing locally and supporting farms and farmer’s markets. I have never owned an alpaca knit and I do admit, my research shows them to be pricey. Nothing wrong with trying out a pair of mittens or socks before committing to a more expensive purchase.

4. Curling Up With A Good Read

Following close behind on the list of Five Fall Comforting Indulgences are blankets and books. There’s no better pairing. Snuggling under a blanket with a good read is hygge at its finest! Relaxation, comfort, and getting lost in a story; it’s a lovely way to take a break from the stressors and repetitiveness of daily life. What types of stories do you like to escape into? Are there genres you associate with this time of year? Do you prefer “who-dunnits,” spooky tales, historical fiction, romance? Or, would you rather read an adventure, wilderness tale, or memoir? I’d love to hear your seasonal choices!

Speaking of choices, we all have a favorite blanket. Is yours threadbare-soft or is it plush and furry? Whatever your preference, a blanket is a perfect autumn hygge go-to. Wrapping in the comfort of a cozy blanket is a nurturing self-hug. I keep a basket by the sofa filled with folded blankets and throws. Beside it, are two smaller slouchy baskets, holding thick socks for family when they visit and extra matches and kindling for candle lighting and fire starting. The only thing missing is a snow day weather forecast!

5. Comfort Food

Last but not least of my Five Fall Comforting Indulgences is nourishments. Hearty foods make a strong comeback in cooler weather. You likely have family favorites in your home too. Soups, chilis, roasted vegetables, meats and lasagna are at the top of the fall menu. Salad prep leans into the fall harvest by showcasing garnishes of seasonal seeds, nuts, and squash. Warm baskets of bread are the definition of comfort food. Fall fruits grace jams, spreads and baking. Dessert recipes highlight pumpkins, apples, pears and cranberries. Savory, sweet, and satisfying are key words associated with autumn fare.

Heated beverages also warm us from the inside out. Spiced ciders, mulled wines, coffee and tea play a major comfort role. And, nothing warms the hands and heart like a steaming mug of hot cocoa. Serve with a bowl of popcorn and…..well, bliss.

I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to share with me the simple seasonal traditions that bring you comfort and enjoyment. You can email me at: latebloomerinbakerville@gmail.com

1. Fireside Pleasures

2. Scents of the Season

3. Sweater Weather

4. Curling Up With A Good Read

5. Comfort Food

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