Fall in New York City is a magical time. The air turns crisp, the leaves change to beautiful hues of orange and red, and the cozy vibes of the season make it the perfect time to dive into self-care and mindfulness. For clean beauty lovers and wellness enthusiasts, fall is the ideal season to slow down, ground yourself, and embrace the nurturing energy around you. Below, we’ve curated a list of 10 mindful activities to help you connect with yourself and the changing season. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or escaping to nature, these practices will help you feel balanced and renewed.

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This list includes:

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NYC self-care,
fall wellness ideas,
autumn mindfulness,
clean beauty fall routine

10 Mindful Activities for Fall

1. Forest Bathing in Central Park

Central Park is at its peak beauty during fall, making it an ideal location for forest bathing, a Japanese practice that involves immersing yourself in nature to relieve stress and promote relaxation. Slow down and engage your senses by taking in the colors, sounds, and smells of the park. Find a quiet spot for a few minutes of mindful breathing and let the natural environment boost your well-being. How to enhance this practice: Wear cozy, clean beauty skincare products with soothing natural scents like lavender or chamomile to deepen the relaxation experience.

Learn more about forest bathing here.

2. Autumn-Inspired Journaling

Journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection, and fall offers plenty of inspiration for writing. Dedicate time each morning or evening to jot down your thoughts, focusing on themes like gratitude, change, and new beginnings. Reflecting on the shifts in nature can also help you process personal transitions, making journaling a mindful, therapeutic outlet. Pro tip: Use a gratitude journal to write down three things you’re thankful for each day. This will help you stay grounded and focused on the positive aspects of your life.

3. Practice Yoga Outdoors

While the weather is still mild, bring your yoga practice outdoors. Rooftop yoga classes are popular across NYC, offering a stunning view of the fall skyline while you stretch and breathe. Yoga in the fresh air allows you to be present with your surroundings and absorb the natural elements as you flow through your poses. The crisp air can help you feel more energized and focused. NYC spots to try: Check out Bryant Park or Domino Park for free outdoor yoga sessions during the fall.

4. Mindful Tea Drinking

Switch up your morning coffee routine with a mindfulness practice centered around tea. Autumn is the perfect season to embrace warming teas like chai, cinnamon, or rooibos. Focus on each step of the tea-making process: smell the tea leaves, notice the steam rising from your cup, and savor each sip slowly. This simple ritual can create a calming, meditative experience in the midst of a busy day.

Clean beauty tip: Pair this tea ritual with a nourishing hand cream from brands like sundays studio to keep your skin soft and moisturized during colder months.

Learn more about sundays studio hand cream here.

5. Explore Seasonal Farmers’ Markets

Visit one of NYC’s many farmers’ markets to embrace the harvest season. Take your time to stroll through the stalls, mindfully selecting seasonal produce like pumpkins, squash, and apples. Engage with the vendors, learn about their farming practices, and feel connected to the local food community. The process of selecting fresh, organic produce can serve as a reminder of nature’s abundance during the fall. Local market picks: The Union Square Greenmarket or the Grand Army Plaza Farmers’ Market are top spots for discovering fall flavors.

6. Create an Autumn Skincare Routine

As the weather changes, so does the need for a new skincare routine. Take some time to mindfully switch out your products for ones that are more hydrating and protective against the cold. Choose clean beauty brands that are cruelty-free and packed with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and vitamin C. Mindfully applying these products in the morning or evening can be a calming way to focus on self-care. Favorite clean beauty brands for fall: Consider incorporating products from Tata Harper, Herbivore Botanicals, sundays studio, or OSEA to keep your skin glowing throughout the season.

7. Mindful Walks Along the Hudson River

The Hudson River Greenway offers breathtaking views of the water and fall foliage. Taking a mindful walk along the river can be a wonderful way to slow down and enjoy the beauty of autumn. Walk without distraction, paying attention to the sensations in your body, the sound of the leaves crunching beneath your feet, and the cool breeze against your skin. It’s a powerful way to ground yourself and find clarity. Suggested route: Start at Riverside Park and continue downtown along the Greenway to soak in the best views.

Learn more about Hudson River Park here.

8. Candlelit Meditation

With shorter days and cooler nights, fall is the perfect season to introduce candlelit meditation into your routine. Light a clean-burning soy or beeswax candle and focus your attention on the flickering flame as you meditate. This practice can help you center your thoughts, find stillness, and relax deeply. Choose candles with soothing, earthy scents like cedarwood or sage to enhance the experience. Pro tip: Brands like P.F. Candle Co. offer non-toxic candles that are perfect for mindful moments.

9. Autumn Herb Workshop

Many wellness centers and herbal shops in NYC offer autumn-themed workshops where you can learn how to incorporate seasonal herbs into your life. You’ll learn about the healing properties of herbs like ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon, and how to use them in teas, skincare, and cooking. These workshops provide an educational and mindful experience as you deepen your connection to nature’s autumnal offerings. Where to go: Check out workshops at The Alchemist’s Kitchen in the East Village for an immersive herbal experience.

Learn more about workshops at The Alchemist’s Kitchen here.

10. Fall Aromatherapy Bath

A warm bath can be the ultimate mindful ritual, especially when you enhance it with autumn-inspired essential oils like clove, cinnamon, or frankincense. Adding a few drops of these oils to your bath can evoke the cozy feeling of fall, while the warmth of the water helps relax your muscles and soothe your mind. This practice is ideal for unwinding after a long day in the city. Product tip: Use a clean, non-toxic bath soak or oil from brands like Herbivore Botanicals or sundays studio to elevate the experience.

Final Thoughts

Fall is a season of transition, and there’s no better time to pause, reflect, and incorporate mindful activities into your routine. Whether you’re forest bathing in Central Park, journaling about gratitude, or enjoying a candlelit bath, these practices are perfect for NYC clean beauty lovers and women interested in self-care and wellness. By embracing the seasonal changes and focusing on mindfulness, you can create a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you.

Enjoy this fall by slowing down, breathing deeply, and nurturing both your mind and body.

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FAQ: 10 Mindful Activities for Fall

What are some mindful activities I can do in NYC during the fall?

NYC offers many mindful activities during the fall, such as forest bathing in Central Park, practicing yoga outdoors, taking mindful walks along the Hudson River, visiting seasonal farmers’ markets, or enjoying a candlelit meditation at home. These activities help you slow down, connect with nature, and embrace the changing season.

How can I create a mindful autumn skincare routine?

To create a mindful autumn skincare routine, switch to hydrating and nourishing clean beauty products that protect against the colder weather. Look for moisturizers, oils, and serums with ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. Brands like sundays studio, Tata Harper, Herbivore Botanicals, and OSEA offer great fall skincare options. Incorporating self-massage and mindful application of products can make this a calming ritual.

What is forest bathing, and where can I practice it in NYC?

Forest bathing, also known as “Shinrin-Yoku,” is a Japanese practice of immersing yourself in nature to reduce stress and promote relaxation. You can practice forest bathing in NYC at Central Park, Prospect Park, or other green spaces. It involves slowing down, engaging your senses, and mindfully connecting with the natural environment around you.

How can I incorporate mindfulness into everyday fall activities?

You can incorporate mindfulness into everyday fall activities by being fully present in whatever you do. Whether it’s sipping a warm cup of tea, walking in the crisp autumn air, or applying skincare products, focus on each moment without distraction. Mindful breathing, paying attention to sensory details, and practicing gratitude can all bring mindfulness into your routine.

What are the benefits of outdoor yoga in the fall?

Outdoor yoga in the fall offers several benefits, including fresh air, enhanced focus, and a connection to nature. The cooler weather helps you stay more energized, and the changing scenery provides a beautiful backdrop for your practice. Practicing yoga outdoors can also improve your mood and reduce stress as you breathe in the crisp, autumn air.