Autumn Reset: Habits to Bring Back the Joy of Living

Autumn has a way of hiding in shades of grey, and sometimes it feels like our mood falls along with the leaves. But here’s the good news: dopamine — the happiness hormone — can be “switched on” by ourselves. All it takes is a few simple habits to make this moody season glow with new colors.

We’ve gathered rituals that will help you move through autumn with ease, beauty, and joy.

Breakfast with a View

Instead of your usual coffee on the run, create a morning ritual: a window, a cozy blanket, a cup of aromatic latte, and the autumn scenery outside. Five minutes of simply observing fall can feel like meditation and fill you with warmth for the whole day.

Monday Workout

The start of the week is often the hardest. The solution is simple: schedule a workout for Monday evening. Endorphins will switch on your “winner mode,” and Tuesday won’t feel so harsh anymore.

Autumn Playlist

Put together a list of films and music to carry you through until the end of the year. That way, on gloomy evenings, you’ll always have your little “lanterns” — favorite songs and movies that light up your mood.

Lighting as Atmosphere

Add soft lighting to your space: floor lamps, candles, string lights. Create warm, cozy corners at home that you’ll always want to come back to.

Walks as Mini-Adventures

Turn an ordinary grocery run into an exploration of the city. Switch off your phone — or, on the contrary, map out a new route. Let each walk become a little adventure.

Hands-On Creativity

Watercolor painting, knitting, baking, making collages, or even sorting old photos — any hands-on activity helps you switch off your mind and reconnect with yourself.