As we trade in our ice cream cones for slices of pumpkin pie, we’ve compiled a short list of activities for this October that we recommend giving a try. Some may merely make you laugh, but overall, we hope to inspire you to find joy in the simplicity of life.
- As Sweet as Apple Pie
Tis the season when apples are piled high in the produce bins, alluring new crowds at the farmers markets, and calling your name from only an hour or two away. Serve them as a nutritious snack to satisfy that sweet tooth, bake them into a delicious pie to share with family and friends or simply to give away to someone who needs a little perking up!
Fun fact: Apple skins are a phenomenal source of insoluble fiber, which has been linked to decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Hit the Snooze Button
Did you know that the 2020 annual survey showed Americans’ average night’s sleep decreased to five hours and thirty minutes? However, the National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults sleep at least seven to nine hours a night for optimal functioning. James Maas, a psychologist at Cornell University that specializes in sleep, advises adults to count eight hours back from the time you must get up in the morning to the time you should be going to bed every night. And since it takes three to four weeks to establish a regular circadian rhythm, the weekends are just as important as the weeknights. The end result? A more energized you to handle the holiday chaos to come!
- Grab Those Overalls and Go Pumpkin Picking
Whether you’re looking to decorate your front porch or have a pumpkin carving contest later in the evening, grab your friends and family to head on over to a local pumpkin patch. And if you’re not a fan of the pumpkin carving mess, then painting them would be another good option. You could even use glow in the dark paint to create the illusion that they are indeed carved! Another creative idea is to buy mini pumpkins to use as ‘bowling balls’ with tall gourds or filled water bottles as your pins in the grass. In addition, you can minimize waste by roasting the pumpkin seeds with a little salt and brown sugar, or Cajun seasoning for a more savory bite.
- Dare to Challenge All Things Pumpkin Spice
While Starbucks may have its PSL down to a science, who says you can’t find other creative ways to incorporate this classic into your other favorite snacks? This is a festive idea to do as a girls night in or with the kids as you try to find the next big Pumpkin Spice menu item. Shall it be a Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate, Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies, Homemade Pop Tarts, Marshmallows, Salsa, Doughnut Holes? We don’t know. So, throw on your favorite cozy sweater and tie on your kitchen apron, because we have some taste-testing to do!
- Time to Clock Out
Can you guess how many hours the average American spends on their phone? It racks up to be nearly five and a half hours of screen time on just mobile phones daily, with social media being responsible for over two hours of that time. So, let’s challenge ourselves to set it aside for at least 30 minutes a day. Whether that is at dinner time or as you take a walk in the crisp autumn weather, you might realize that there are some things you’ve been missing out on before, like enjoying the taste of your food or meaningful conversations with new neighbors.
And just like that, you’re on your way to a healthier and happier you this autumn season!
