I’m so glad it’s October. I really feel like the air becomes more fall-like where I live during this month, and I can tell my body wants to slow down.

I’m going to listen to it. If you feel the same nudge, why don’t you also?

Since the Autumnal Equinox, I’ve tried to embrace the fact that we are entering the dark half of the year. Instead of feeling “gloomy,” I remember this is a time to rest, and enjoy everything that life brings.

I’ve realized that I’ve been just a little too busy. I need to slow down a tad in order to really enjoy this time of year.

As women, we were not made to go, go, go. We spend so much time nurturing our families and homes, and I think fall sounds like the perfect season for us to nurture ourselves, too.

So, I’m making a few changes. I think I may close my Etsy shop for a time. This is a difficult decision to make, since I’d likely lose my Star Seller status. But when I think of taking my shop off of my plate, I can feel my body and mind relax. This is a good indication that I’m making the right decision.

I’ve given myself grace when it comes to my waking hour. During the summer, I awoke at 5:30 am on the dot. Now, I’m allowing myself to stay in bed until 7:00 am, which feels very nice!

Since I’ll be not working as many hours, I’ve decided to renew my commitment to living a contented life. Friends, I truly have all that I need, and I think I may challenge myself to spend less money than I normally do this month.

All of this sounds like such a nice way to spend October.

Of course, there are some activities planned. My son will be playing the banjo with his band at Dollywood, and we are definitely going to watch him! October wouldn’t be the same without a visit to the pumpkin patch, too.

Most importantly, I plan to listen to my body. If it says to slow down, then I want to do just that.

I hope to live gently, and intentionally. If you hope to do the same, then why don’t you give it a try? Let go of a few of your obligations and settle into the slower rhythm of fall.