Life can feel like one long rush.
Between the hustle and bustle, checking the phone before our eyes are even open, and the constant rush to meet deadlines, too often it feels as if we just can’t sit still! But perhaps there is another way of living.
Living seasonally can help soothe the busy life.
It encourages us to observe the changes in the weather, the environment, how we eat and even how we behave!
Let Our Routine Reflect the Year
Our routine should not always remain the same, even if it’s not an outright no.
It can help to let our lifestyles change ever so slightly with the seasons.
Whether it is enjoying the warm summer mornings or curling up with a book and warm drink during the cold winter nights, allowing oneself space to feel the effects of each season, as well as let the weather influence daily habits, can make life so much easier.
The goal is simply not to become one with mother nature, but to observe.
Eat Seasonally
A great way to live a more seasonal lifestyle is by eating in accordance with what’s in season.
Try and choose your produce, herbs, and ingredients according to what is available during the year in the area that you live in.
Stop at a seasonal market and buy seasonal produce to cook with or, if you find a food that you particularly enjoy, make a effort to keep making it – just a different way when the seasons change. There truly is nothing better than seasonal food and, although it might sound a bit strange, it can truly make an average Tuesday a bit more special.
Invigorate the Soul With Nature
We don’t have to be in a cabin in the woods to enjoy nature, and living seasonally can help us appreciate the beauty surrounding us. Whether it be on a walk after work or simply looking out the window on your lunch break, take in any sign of the changing seasons, and perhaps even get outside when you can!
Whether it’s a ten minute walk, a trip to the nearest green area, or growing things such as herbs or plants on a windowsill or balcony, it can do a world of good to stop and observe the amazing world around us.
Let’s be real, sometimes we just don’t need another ‘self care’ spa day, what we need is some fresh air!
Create Seasonal Rituals and Traditions
Seasonal traditions and rituals can make the year feel a little more special.
Try and visit a market place or nature reserve, cook seasonal dishes, read seasonal books or simply go on a walk once a month or so. Small seasonal rituals can go a long way in making us feel connected to the world, and observing the year as a whole rather than living in our own little bubble
You don’t need extravagant events – they can simply be small things we can do more often.
Refresh Our Surroundings According to the Year
We aren’t suggesting redecorating your house every now and then, however a change in our surroundings can do a world of good.
It doesn’t have to be every once in a while, you can simply switch up clothing and accessories to reflect what’s going on in nature! Change heavier or lighter clothing depending on what the weather is like outside your home, change the lighting in the house according to the weather and maybe even change your furniture slightly if you really feel like it. A seasonal home doesn’t mean a yearly redecoration, just more keeping up with the times.
Dress Well and Warmly (Or Not)
We’ll be honest, sometimes our pursuit of the latest fashion trends leaves us in the dark when it comes to clothing and its real function.
Choose clothing and accessories that are warm and not just stylish, or if it is cold out, dress appropriately! Dressing warmer can not only warm those chilly bones, but it can also be a chance express different styles and wear something we really like at a time when we might need it most.
Try and spend time outdoors when possible.
Fresh air and open spaces can have such a positive impact, yet some of us barely get the chance to stop and smell the roses!
Perhaps grab a bite to eat outside and chat with a friend, or simply take an extra-long walk on warmer nights. It can help add variety and meaning to an average day.
Enjoy the Moment You’re In
It’s easy to become focused on what’s next and forget about what’s now.
Living in the present and being grateful for what we have and the time we are given can help so greatly with stress, anxiety, and simple everyday living. Are you happy being stressed over holidays or enjoying a nice cuppa in the evening while reading?
You are able to control your life and what it is you choose to do!
There’s always something to observe in everyday life, so let yourself be a part of it.
Give Each Month What It Needs
Each individual month can bring different things.
Some months we might fancy nights out, and other months, in. We might find ourselves busier at some parts of the year, than we would at others. These are all a part of life and we shouldn’t deny ourselves happiness because it doesn’t meet high expectations. It’s normal to have a busy season and a down season, give yourself the space and time that you need.
The Final Say
Seasonal living can truly be something amazing.
It allows us to notice the little things that we tend to overlook while being busy. Cooking something special, making a small change to your usual routine, getting outside and living in the moment are all ways that we can enjoy the changes of each month. You might find that your home and lifestyle reflects the seasons a lot without having to do anything. Maybe you like being busy in certain parts of the year, or you might prefer sitting back and doing nothing at all. A change in seasons means a change in lifestyle; it is simply natural.
We hope you are able to notice what it is you love about your life! The year will change – life will continue – but you don’t have to continue with it.
