It's almost the end of August where I live in Northern Virginia, and Fall is just around the corner! Depending on where you live, you might not notice a significant shift in the weather yet. Maybe you're aware of a change in mood or energy instead. Possibly the activity at home or work has changed as we round out the month of August and move into September.
Seasonal shifts are beautiful reminders to slow down, even if just for a moment. Spring and Fall are "between times" that give us a moment to reflect and prepare for what's ahead. As you watch the leaves turn or notice cooler weather, you can also use that moment to reflect inwardly on your own shifts and changes.
The Benefits of Putting Pen to Paper
Putting pen or pencil to paper can help you slow down even more. Plus, it's surprisingly calming. Drawing or writing, when done with reflection and focus, is a type of mindful activity that allows you to focus more fully on the present moment. This is not about creating your masterpiece - it's about slowing down with the season. It's about the practice itself.
Journaling to Connect with Your Autumn Rhythm
If you've been thinking about starting or revisiting autumn journaling practices, the season naturally invites reflection. For me, having a small notebook or handmade journal is best because I can use it for a short time, without the pressure to fill the whole thing, or focus on a particular topic or time of year.
Here are a few gentle ways to ease into autumn journaling:
Seasonal Intention Setting: Instead of waiting for January 1st, what if you used natural seasonal transitions, like autumn, to set a few intentions? What matters to you most right now, in this moment? What do you see changing in you, like the falling leaves? What do you want to nurture and support as you head into the cozy (and often busy) time of winter?
Simple Daily Noting: Each evening, take 5 minutes or less to jot down three things about your day. It could be as simple as "good coffee, funny text from mom, pretty sunset." It's amazing how this tiny practice increases your awareness and allows you to see more clearly what's important to you.
Mindful Walking with a Notebook
Leave your phone behind and try taking a small notebook and pencil with you when you take a walk this fall. When something catches your eye or prompts a reaction, stop for a moment. The way the light hits that one house at 4 PM. How many shades of gold are actually in the "fall colors.
You don't need to consider yourself an artist or even be "artistic" in this mindful walking practice. Sometimes I just write color words or doodle little leaf shapes.
Open to Being is Here for Your Journey
We have beautifully hand-bound small notebooks that are just right for these moments of observation. Browse our collection of handmade journals that are perfect for seasonal reflections.
If you live in the DC area, slow down together with kindred spirits in our Mindful Making workshop on September 25. In our cozy studio, we'll create small, charming notebooks perfect for carrying in your pocket or bag—ideal companions for autumn intentions, sketches, or daily reflections.
Blackwing Short Pencils fit easily in your pocket or bag for travel, sketching, and taking notes on the go. When first introduced in the 1930s, Blackwing pencils were an instant hit among artists and writers, and their revival in the past 15 years has brought them to a wider audience.
The Gift of Seasonal Awareness
What I love most about this time of year is how it reminds us that paying attention doesn't require big gestures or expensive equipment. Changes around us are natural prompts to be aware of what's happening inside us. We just have to be right here, in whatever moment we're in—this cup of coffee or tea, this particular slant of light, this feeling in your body right now. We just have to practice, again and again and again.
To me, Autumn seems to be asking: How can slowing down help me move through whatever's going on around me? What if I trusted that this moment—ordinary as it might seem—matters just as much as the big ones?
The thing is, whether you write it down, sketch it, or just breathe it in, the practice of noticing is what transforms ordinary moments into something richer. And isn't that exactly what we need as the world starts spinning faster toward the holidays?
Ready to slow down with the season? Browse our handmade journals or join our Mini-Notebook Workshop on September 25th, 6:30-8:30 PM in Arlington. We'll craft small, beautiful notebooks perfect for seasonal reflections and daily observations. Before or after the workshop, browse our Blackwing pencils, notecards, and other handcrafted items for heart and soul.
