The Ultimate Fall Reset: Self-Care Routines for Women Over 35

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Fall is here, and with it comes a fresh start—the kids are back in school, the summer chaos is behind you, and the cooler days are the perfect invitation to reset. As we move into this season, it’s the ideal time to focus on something many of us let slip during the busy summer months—ourselves. This isn’t about grand gestures or spa days (although, if that’s on the table, yes, please!), but small, manageable self-care habits that fit into your daily life.

If you’re feeling a little burnt out or scattered after the summer whirlwind, this is your sign to slow down, reset your routines, and carve out space for some well-deserved you time. Here’s how to create the ultimate fall reset with self-care, organization, and mindfulness tips that will help you thrive, not just survive, this season.

Why Fall is the Best Time for a Reset

Fall naturally feels like a transition period—summer’s fast pace is behind us, and the holidays are still far enough away that there’s room to breathe. This makes it the perfect season to rethink your routines and habits. You’re already shifting gears with back-to-school schedules or maybe adjusting to a quieter home, and that energy can be harnessed to bring some calm and balance back into your life.

Step 1: Organize Your Life (Without Feeling Overwhelmed)

Let’s face it, after a summer of “I’ll deal with it later,” things can feel a little…disorganized. Now that we’re back into routines, it’s the perfect opportunity to reclaim control over the chaos. And no, this doesn’t mean perfection—it means finding systems that work for you.

Pro Tip: Start with your schedule. Whether it’s a paper planner, a digital calendar, or a colorful wall chart for the whole family, blocking out time for self-care, hobbies, or even a quiet coffee break is crucial. If it’s not scheduled, it’s too easy to let it slip through the cracks.

Bonus Tip: Use the “two-minute rule”—if something takes less than two minutes (like tidying the entryway or responding to an email), do it right away. It prevents clutter, both physical and mental.

Look, if you’re managing to get your kids to school on time, remember 75% of their after-school activities, and only occasionally forget to defrost dinner… you’re winning. Let’s call it a day.

Step 2: Hydrate, Sleep, Repeat

The hustle of fall can leave us skimping on sleep or forgetting to drink enough water. Both are absolutely non-negotiable for keeping your body and mind functioning at their best—especially after 35 when your body isn’t as forgiving about that late-night Netflix binge (you know the one).

Hydration Fixes: Aim for eight glasses of water a day—your skin, energy levels, and mood will thank you. Struggling to remember? Invest in a pretty water bottle that tracks your intake or set reminders on your phone.

Prioritize Sleep: Try to stick to a regular bedtime. Start a calming pre-sleep routine—dim the lights, sip on some chamomile tea, and leave the scrolling for tomorrow. Trust me, nothing earth-shattering happens on social media after 9 p.m.

You know you’re officially over 35 when your idea of a good time is being in bed by 9:30 with a moisturizing mask and a good book. Welcome to the club!

If you’re looking to dive deeper into why sleep is so essential for your health, check out my article on the health risks of sleep deprivation. You’ll learn more about the critical role sleep plays in both your mental and physical well-being.

Step 3: Move (But Make It Enjoyable)

Forget punishing yourself with workouts you hate. Fall is the perfect time to find movement you actually enjoy. Whether it’s a brisk walk through crunchy autumn leaves, yoga by the fireplace, or even dancing in your kitchen—just keep moving.

Pro Tip: Instead of squeezing in workouts as an afterthought, think of movement as a form of self-care. Maybe it’s a 20-minute yoga flow to start the day, a quick stretching break while working from home, or a weekend hike to enjoy the fall foliage.

 If walking from the couch to the fridge counts as cardio… I’m practically an athlete.

Step 4: Embrace Mindfulness (Without the Pressure)

Mindfulness can sound like a buzzword, but it’s really about bringing more presence into your day-to-day life. And it doesn’t have to be complicated. Fall is a great time to start (or restart) a mindfulness practice because the slower pace and quiet moments lend themselves to more introspection and peace.

Easy Ways to Incorporate Mindfulness:

• Gratitude journaling: At the end of each day, jot down three things you’re grateful for. It can shift your mindset and help you focus on the positive.
• Mindful walks: While you’re out enjoying the fall scenery, try to really notice your surroundings—how the air feels, the sounds around you, the colors of the leaves. It’s a simple way to ground yourself.
• Breath breaks: Even in the middle of a hectic day, taking 30 seconds to focus on your breath can calm your mind and re-energize you.

Mindfulness is hard when your brain is constantly reminding you of that one embarrassing thing you did in high school, but hey, we try.

To learn more about how mindfulness can help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being, take a look at my article on the power of mindfulness techniques. It dives into simple practices that can make a big difference in your day-to-day life.

Step 5: Nourish Your Body with Comforting (and Healthy) Foods

Fall is the time for cozy meals, but that doesn’t mean they have to be unhealthy. With the abundance of seasonal produce like squash, apples, and sweet potatoes, you can whip up nourishing, hearty meals that make you feel great.

Comfort Foods Done Right:

Hearty soups: Perfect for cold days, and you can sneak in all kinds of veggies.

Roasted veggies: Easy to prep and packed with nutrients. Toss them with olive oil and spices, and you’re good to go.

Warm drinks: Swap sugary lattes for herbal teas or spiced apple cider to keep you cozy and hydrated.

Let’s be real—there’s no fall without at least one indulgent pumpkin spice latte. Just balance it out with a side of kale 😉

…And don’t forget about a warm cup of hot cocoa! Not only is it the perfect fall treat, but cocoa is also packed with antioxidants that support heart health and help you relax. Want to learn how to make a healthy version? Check out my  video on how to make a healthy hot chocolate!

 

Step 6: Create a Fall Self-Care Ritual

Finally, use fall as a time to create your own self-care ritual. Maybe it’s a nightly skincare routine with a hydrating mask, a weekend bath with candles and soothing music, or just 10 minutes to sit with a cup of tea and read. Whatever makes you feel good, schedule it into your routine.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to indulge your senses—fall is full of cozy textures, comforting scents (hello, cinnamon and vanilla!) and warmth.  Light a candle, wrap yourself in a soft blanket, and enjoy the slower pace.

🍂 Click here to dive deeper into more self-care tips!

Your Fall Reset Starts Now

Fall offers the perfect opportunity to reset and realign your routines with what matters most—you. Whether it’s organizing your life, prioritizing sleep, moving in ways you enjoy, or embracing mindful moments, taking small steps toward self-care can make a big difference. And remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

So, let this be your season to reset, recharge, and fall back into the routines that make you feel your best. You’ve got this, one pumpkin-spice-scented moment at a time.

Call to Action
Ready to start your fall reset? Begin with just one of the tips above and see how it transforms your day. If you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend, leave a comment below, and stay connected for more wellness inspiration. You deserve this time for yourself! 🍂✨

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