Grounding for the new Season - Autumn

October marks the start of significant change in the seasons.

Slowing Down with the Rhythm of Nature

Autumn invites a natural pause — shorter days, cooler air, and a shift from the outward energy of summer to inward reflection. During this time, it is important to align with nature's pace. This means rest is essential, intentionally slower movement and mindful routines that support through this season. Some examples of grounding rituals that will be a benefit during this time include, but not limited to:

• grounding morning rituals

• slow paced yoga flow

• nature walks

• warm tea

• meditations to embody this seasonal shift

• journaling for reflection and release

  
  

Rooting into the Body and Breath

As the world around us begins to cool and shift, our bodies and minds can easily feel the pull of change — a subtle sense of transition that can sometimes bring restlessness, fatigue, or even emotional heaviness. Grounding through sensory awareness and somatic connection helps us meet this shift with steadiness and presence.

Some simple grounding practices include, but not limited to:

• barefoot walking

• gentle yoga

• deep belly breathing to anchor the body and calm the nervous system

When we bring attention back to our senses — the scent of dry leaves, the sound of rustling trees, the warmth of a blanket — we create stability in a season that’s all about change. It’s a way of saying to ourselves: I am here, I am supported, I am grounded.

Autumn reminds us that grounding doesn’t mean holding on tightly — it means staying rooted while allowing the natural flow of transformation. The more we connect to the body, the steadier we feel, no matter what the season brings.

Releasing and Nourishing — The Balance of Autumn

Autumn is a time of both release and nourishment: letting go of excess energy, clutter, or habits while making space for restoration.

A few mindful journaling prompts below to support your release and option to burn or burying it as a symbolic gesture. You can choose 1 or a few to use.

• What am I ready to let go of — habits, thoughts, or energies — that no longer feel aligned with who I am becoming?

• Where in my life am I being invited to slow down, listen, or rest more deeply?

• What does feeling grounded mean to me right now, and how can I nurture that feeling each day?

• Which emotions or experiences have been asking to be acknowledged before I can release them?

• How can I create space — in my schedule, home, or heart — for what truly nourishes me this season?

Self-care practices that nourish you during this season such as cozy foods, grounding scents (like cedar or cinnamon), and gratitude reflections for the harvest of the year. A few affirmations to use for this season.

• I am rooted in the present moment, calm and supported by the Earth beneath me.

• I allow myself to release what no longer serves my growth with ease and grace.

• As I slow down, I find clarity, balance, and peace within.

• I trust the natural rhythm of change — I do not need to rush my unfolding.

• With every breath, I return home to my body and my inner stillness.

As the season turns, may you give yourself permission to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the steady rhythm of the earth. Let this autumn be a time of gentle release and a soft unwinding that makes space for stillness, nourishment, and new beginnings to take root. Remember, grounding isn’t about staying still; it’s about finding stability within yourself no matter how life shifts around you.

Take a deep breath, feel your feet on the ground, and trust that you are exactly where you need to be.

Slow down with me and practice this free YouTube flow, "Yoga for New Beginnings" to welcome the new season. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCzJFRVrKTU

With steady roots and an open heart,

Erika B.

Owner | Zen Bend Yoga

May you feel rooted, supported, and at peace in this changing season.