30 Body-Positive Self-Care Ideas for Autumn (That Actually Help You Stop Feeling Like Crap)

Alright, let’s talk about self-care ideas for Autumn. Not the fluffy, “take a bubble bath and all your problems will disappear” type, but the real, gritty kind that actually helps you feel better. It’s fall, so let’s lean into that cozy vibe and focus on ways to nourish yourself without spiraling into guilt or “I should be doing more” territory. This is about taking care of yourself and your body in a way that feels good—without the pressure.

Here are 30 body-positive, body-neutral self-care ideas to get you through autumn feeling a little more like a human just simply existing.

Self Care Ideas for Autumn

Mindful Movement

Nourishing Your Body

Get Creative

Mindful Rest

Sensory Self Care Ideas

Mental Health Self Care Ideas for Autumn

Mindful Movement & Relaxation

1. Gentle Stretching or Yoga: No, you don’t need to twist yourself into a pretzel. Just stretch it out. Feel your body wake up and thank you for it. (I love a good “body neutral youtube video to guide this strategy!)
2. Nature Walks: There’s something about crunchy leaves underfoot that makes you feel grounded. Go for a walk, even if it’s just around the block! Bonus fun if you have a four-legged furry friend to go with you!
3. Breathing Exercises: Simple, but it works. Deep breaths. In, out. You got this. My go-to is box breathing or diaphragmatic breathing!
4. Candlelit Bath: Grab some autumn-scented candles (hello, pumpkin spice and apple cobbler) and soak in that warmth like the queen you are.
5. Massage: Whether you book it or DIY with a foam roller, your body will thank you.

Nourishing Your Body (Without the Diet Culture BS)

6. Baking Comforting Foods: Bake that pumpkin bread, apple pie or Taylor Swift’s famous chai cookies because you want to, not because you “earned it.”
7. Seasonal Tea or Cider: Warm drinks are basically a hug for your insides. Sip, savor, repeat.
8. Eat Intuitively: Listen to your body. Eat what sounds good and stop when you’re full. No rules, just vibes.
9. Try New Seasonal Recipes: There’s something about roasting veggies or making a cozy soup that feels like fall. Go for it.
10. Hydration: It’s getting colder, so you might not think about drinking water, but your body still needs it. Herbal teas count, so make it fun!

Creative Expression (For When You Need to Get Out of Your Head)

11. Autumn-Inspired Journaling: Jot down your thoughts, your goals, or just how pretty the leaves are. Whatever comes out, it’s valid.
12. Cozy Crafts: Knitting, crocheting, making random fall décor—it doesn’t have to be perfect, just something to focus on. (I am learning how to crochet this fall, too!)
13. Pumpkin Decorating: Carve it, paint it, whatever. This is about having fun, not making it Instagram-worthy.
14. Leaf Pressing or Collecting: Go old school and press some leaves or make art out of nature’s confetti.
15. Create a Fall Vision Board: No body goals allowed—focus on things like joy, connection, and whatever else makes you feel whole.

Mindful Rest & Connection (Because You Deserve to Chill)

16. Gratitude Practice: I know, it’s cheesy, but write down a few things you’re thankful for. It helps shift your focus to gratitude and a neutral growth mindset.
17. Listen to Relaxing Music or Podcasts: Create an autumn playlist or listen to body-positive podcasts. Music is a mood lifter!
18. Cozy Reading Time: Grab a book that makes you feel good—no pressure to finish it or make it deep.
19. Digital Detox: Social media isn’t always your friend. I cannot stress this enough!! Take a break from the scrolling, especially if it’s making you feel like crap.
20. Intentional Sleep Routine: Set yourself up for better sleep—put your phone away, dim the lights, and let yourself rest.

Sensory Enjoyment (AKA All the Cozy Vibes that Feel Like a Warm Hug)

21. Scented Candles: Autumn scents are basically therapy in wax form. Light one up and let that cinnamon-vanilla goodness wash over you.
22. Autumn Scents or Oils: Try essential oils like clove or eucalyptus for an instant mood boost.
23. Wear Comfy Clothes: Get cozy. Layers, soft fabrics, whatever makes you feel wrapped in a hug.
24. Autumn Playlist: Curate a playlist that makes you feel grounded and joyful. Dance around in your room or just vibe out. I will be listening to Noah Kahan’s ‘Stick Season’ until further notice.
25. Outdoor Fire or Bonfire: There’s something magical about a crackling fire on a crisp evening. Wrap yourself in a blanket and soak it in.

Mental Health & Well-being (Because, Duh, You Matter)

26. Therapy or Support Groups: If you need to talk, talk. Therapy is like taking your brain to the gym—it’s for everyone.
27. Self-Compassion Mantras: Find affirmations that speak to you, like “I don’t have to love what my body looks like to take care of her” or “I deserve to take up space just as I am.”
28. Boundaries with Social Media: Curate your feed so it’s not making you feel like garbage. Follow people who lift you up, not tear you down.
29. Intentional Socializing: Hang out with people who get you and leave you feeling good. You don’t need to be around energy vampires.
30. Rest Without Guilt: Rest is productive. Let yourself sleep in or take a nap without beating yourself up over it.

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There you go—30 ways to feel a little more like yourself this fall, minus the guilt, minus the pressure, and minus the BS. You don’t have to “earn” self-care, you just have to give yourself permission to take it.

Head over to IG and let me know which ones you will be trying this fall!

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