Fall is a perfect season to get outdoors. Summer temperatures have cooled off, leaves begin turning bright oranges, yellows, and reds, and crisp air nurtures all the harvest foods that in turn nurture our bodies. Being in nature has been linked to a number of health benefits, from reduced stress to improved mood, and even increased empathy and cooperation. While our minds may feel refreshed after a day outside, strolling along the river or hiking nearby state parks, our bodies need care when we return home. Enjoy these tips for a rejuvenating night in after a brisk fall day outdoors.

Be Kind to Your Body

A warm bath is replenishing after a long day in nature. Enhance it with an additive soak, like those from Community Foods producer Roots Essential. From an immunity boosting blend to a recovery soak, Roots Essential has great options to elevate your bath time. Or visit Seward Co-op’s Wellness section for bulk Epsom salts that can be mixed with dried herbs and essential oils to create blissful bath blends. A good ratio is one cup of Epsom salts to 10 drops of your choice of essential oils. Peppermint and eucalyptus oils are refreshing and stimulating, while rosemary and lavender oils are relaxing and soothing.  About 1/4 cup of salt per bath is enough to soften and scent the water. Just be cautious when leaving the tub. Essential oils can be slippery!

Sense Stimulation

Light candles near your tub to ease into a relaxing evening. Try candle scents like Amyris Bergamot and Orange Ginger from local producer SunLeaf, or opt for one of their mini diffusers as another way to fill your space with a comforting aroma. Connecting with our senses is a simple and effective way to stay grounded and mindful. Add in paced breathing to further connect with your body: breathe in for a count of six, hold for two, and out for a count of eight.

Take Care with Tonics

After a soothing bath, round out your evening with a tonic designed to promote good health. Why wait until winter colds to start boosting your wellness? Mickelberry Gardens is a small-scale producer that crafts a variety of tonics with raw honey from their own farms and gardens. Try their Fire Cider Honey Tonic, made from raw apple cider vinegar, raw Pacific Northwest honey, onion bulb, garlic bulb, ginger root, chili pepper, horseradish root, dandelion leaf, and turmeric root. You can also make your own fire cider at home! Click here for full instructions. You can also learn to make fire cider through our Indigenous Foods Class Series. Register for the Elderberry Syrup and Fire Cider class here.