An Autumn Whisper To My Soul: Simple Rituals That Bring Me Back To Calm

Slow down!

October 15, 2025 | By Daphne Oh

"You deserve peace, even in the rush. You deserve to breathe, even when the world feels loud."

Autumn has always been one of my favorite seasons. I absolutely love the colors, the cozy clothes, the crisp air that feels like a fresh start. However, it’s also one of the busiest times of year. The start of a new school year, new goals for my small business and Etsy shop, appointments left and right. Before I know it, I’m running on iced coffee and to-do lists.

However, things have changed in the past year. Lately, I’ve been reminding myself that even amid the busyness, I can still find calm. I can still slow down. I can still breathe. So I started building little rituals, small moments of calm that ground me when life feels like too much…and believe me, life can feel like too much sometimes. These aren’t elaborate or perfect rituals. They’re simple, quiet things that help me reconnect with myself, especially during the rush of autumn.

Morning Musings: That Calm Breath Before Life Gets Loud

 

Before I check my phone or open my laptop, I stare at the moving trees and let some sunlight enter my eyes. Then, I try to sit with a warm cup of tea or iced coffee and just be. I love watching the morning light spill through the window, the way it glows golden against the leaves outside.

For a long time, I used to wake up and dive straight into emails or social media. It always left me feeling behind before the day even began. Now, I guard those first few minutes like something sacred. Even if it’s just five minutes, that quiet stillness feels like armor against the chaos ahead.

A Stroll With My Thoughts: Finding Calm In Every Step of Change

 

One of my favorite fall rituals is taking a short walk, at least 15 minutes in the morning. There’s something about the crisp autumn air that clears my head in a way nothing else does. I struggle with these types of walks in the summer, so I quite enjoy it when autumn comes around.

As I walk, I remind myself that life, like the seasons, is about change. The trees let go of their leaves, and I think about what I can let go of, such old stress, guilt, and unrealistic expectations. Each step feels like a release, a reminder that I don’t have to carry everything at once.

Turning My Space Into A Soft Escape For My Soul

When the days get shorter, I find comfort in creating cozy spaces that make me want to slow down. Soft blankets, candles that smell like vanilla or cinnamon, warm lighting. These little details calm my mind after long days.

In the evenings, I’ll wrap myself in a blanket, pour a cup of chamomile tea, and play soft music or journal about the day. I write about what went well, what I’m grateful for, and what I can let go of. It’s not about perfection; it’s about presence. If you want to know more about cozy living, check out my blog below on the top

A Plate Full of Intention: Learning to Nourish, Not Just Keep Going

 

During busy times, it’s easy to skip meals or grab whatever’s convenient. But I’ve learned that how I feed my body affects how I handle stress. This season, I’m leaning into warm, nourishing foods such as oatmeal with cinnamon, roasted vegetables, and my favorite fall treat: soup. I absolutely love soup season. I love making different soups and recipes. I'm excited about the different soups that I will be making this season.

These small choices feel like self-care in motion. They remind me that taking care of myself isn’t something to squeeze into my schedule. It's something my schedule should make space for.

The Sun Has Set And So Has My Worries 

My favorite ritual might be this one: turning off screens an hour before bed. I light a candle, stretch, or sometimes just sit in silence. Those moments of quiet reflection help me separate the noise of the day from the peace of the night.

I’ve noticed that when I give myself permission to slow down in the evenings, I sleep better, dream deeper, and wake up feeling more centered. It’s amazing how much peace can come from simply choosing to disconnect.

A Heart Full of Calm in a Hectic World: Finding Beauty in the Busy

This autumn, I’m learning that peace doesn’t come from clearing my calendar—it comes from creating moments within it that feel like rest. Whether it’s sipping tea under a blanket, breathing in the crisp air, or pausing long enough to watch the leaves dance in the wind, I’m discovering that calm can exist even in the busiest seasons.

So if life feels full and fast right now, take a deep breath. Find your tiny ritual, a quiet walk, a warm drink, a soft song, and make it part of your rhythm.

You deserve peace, even in the rush. You deserve to breathe, even when the world feels loud. Sometimes, all it takes is one small, cozy ritual to remind yourself that you’re not just surviving this season. You're learning how to slowly, beautifully, thrive through it.

Autumn Self-Care Reflection + Checklist

Take a few minutes to pause and reconnect with yourself. You can journal your answers, say them aloud, or simply think about them while sipping your favorite drink.

Reflection Prompts

What are three small things that bring me peace during busy days?

• What am I ready to let go of this season?

• How can I add more stillness into my mornings or evenings?

• What does “rest” mean to me right now?

• What’s one cozy ritual I can start today?

🕯️ Cozy Checklist for Stress Relief

• Light a candle or diffuse a calming scent.

• Take a 10-minute mindful walk and notice the colors of autumn.

• Prepare a warm, nourishing meal or drink.

• Journal one thing you’re grateful for.

• Turn off screens 30 minutes before bed and enjoy quiet time.

• Wrap up in a blanket and breathe deeply for a few minutes.

I hope this blog has found you in good spirits and that you have enjoyed reading my thoughts and personal experience with finding balance during a busy season. I truly appreciate everyone's support. Please leave a comment and share any of your experience and knowledge about how you deal with the busy season.. You never know who you may be inspiring. Wishing everyone peace, happiness and favortism. Please check back weekly for my latest blogs. Some will be personal, others will be about spreading awareness and some will be a combination of both. Until next time...

-Daphne Oh

Kay Bea Presents

"Same World, Different Perspective