As we shift into autumn, it can give us a chance to pause and gently reconnect with what brings us comfort. In this blog, we share suggestions for calming and creative ways to care for your mind during the cooler months.
Following are a few calm, gentle activities that may help you feel more at ease physically, emotionally and mentally.
- Taking a quiet walk in nature
You don’t have to go far. A slow walk under autumn trees, or even sitting by a window with a view of changing leaves, can offer moments of calm. Research shows that being in or near natural spaces like a garden or park can help reduce stress and lift your mood (1). Even a few minutes outside can feel like a small reset, especially on days when your body or mind feels tired. If walking isn’t possible, just stepping outside for some fresh air or letting sunlight into your room can help.
- Spending time on a creative hobby
Many of our grant recipients have chosen activities like sewing, painting, music or journaling as ways to stay connected to themselves during recovery. These creative activities can help express feelings, reduce anxiety and bring a sense of mindfulness (2). You don’t need to be an expert; what matters is doing something that feels calming or enjoyable. You could consider colouring, writing, cooking or crafting, whatever feels right for you.
- Creating small and soothing routines
You can use the shorter autumn days to build little habits that bring ease and structure, without pressure. Lighting a candle in the evening, making a cup of tea, listening to music or stretching in the morning can become gentle routines that support your emotional wellbeing.
Mindfulness doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply paying attention to your breath, noticing how your body feels or focusing on one thing at a time can help calm racing thoughts. Studies have shown that mindfulness can ease anxiety and emotional fatigue in people who have gone through cancer treatment (3).
- Finding comfort in warmth and scent
As the weather cools, many people may find comfort in warm, sensory experiences. This could look like wrapping yourself in a soft blanket, taking a warm bath or diffusing calming scents like chamomile or eucalyptus. Aromatherapy has been found to help reduce feelings of stress and improve sleep in patients with cancer (4). Even using a heat pack, lighting a softly scented candle or wearing cozy socks can make a difference on difficult days.
- Attending an event
Going to an event can be a great way to break the routine and enjoy something different. Whether it’s a small gathering, a local market or an art show, attending events offers a chance to connect with others and experience something new. This change of scenery and interaction with the community can help enhance mood and provide a sense of connection. Following are a few ideas of the upcoming autumn events to consider.
Upcoming autumn events in Melbourne
Festivals and Community Events
- Bright Autumn Festival (April 25 – May 4) -The Bright Autumn Festival is held in the beautiful town of Bright, knownfor its stunning autumn leaves. The festival has markets, gardens and a chance to enjoy the peaceful scenery. It’s a relaxing day out in nature, perfect for enjoying the season. https://www.brightautumnfestival.org.au/
- K
alorama Chestnut Festival (May 4) – This fun, family-friendly festival takes place in the Dandenong Ranges. Enjoy roasted chestnuts, food, music and a peaceful day in the hills. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of autumn. https://chestnutfestival.org.au/site/
Buddha’s Day & Multicultural Festival (May 2–4) – Held at Federation Square, this festival celebrates Buddhism with peaceful music, dance and delicious vegetarian food. It’s a calm event where you can enjoy the culture and feel a sense of peace. https://buddhaday.org.au/
Markets and Food Events
Round She Goes Market (May 5) – This market in Coburg is a great place to find second-hand clothes, jewellery and vintage items. It’s a relaxed market where you can shop and discover unique finds. https://roundshegoes.com.au/melbourne/
- Hawker 88 Night Market (Until May 8) – Here you can enjoy a range of Asian street
foods at the Queen Victoria Market on Wednesday nights. With food, music and lights, it’s a funand vibrant night out. https://thenightmarket.com.au/
Art and Exhibitions
The Outsiders Exhibition (Until May 25) – This exhibition features famous street art, including works by Banksy. It’s a great chance to see unique and beautiful art in a calm gallery setting. https://www.theoutsidersmelbourne.com/about
Van Gogh at THE LUME (Until June 1) – Explore Van Gogh’s famous paintings ina new way at this digitalexhibition. Walk through roomsfilled with his artwork for a relaxing and beautiful experience. https://www.thelumemelbourne.com/van-gogh
These activities can be a simple way to focus on your wellbeing and enjoy the season. We, at the foundation, understand that everyone’s wellness journey is different and taking time for activities that bring comfort can be an important part of that process.
Our wellness grants can help support individuals in exploring activities that support both the mind and body. If you are interested in accessing support for your wellbeing, you can apply for a grant to assist with your personal wellness needs and goals.
How to apply for a wellness grant from The Christina Ghobadi Foundation
- Apply for a grant
If you are aged between 18 and 30 years of age and living with or recovering from cancer, consider applying for a grant detailing the desired wellness activity that you would like to do, and how it would benefit your recovery journey. (Click here to Apply)
- Contact the Foundation
Reach out directly to The Christina Ghobadi Foundation to discuss the suitability of your interest as a grant-funded activity. (Click here to Contact Us)
- Forward this information to some-one you know
If you know some-one who fits this criteria and would benefit from receiving a grant to help with their recovery please forward this information onto them.
References
- Ulrich, R. S., Simons, R. F., Losito, B. D., Fiorito, E., Miles, M. A., & Zelson, M. (1991). Stress recovery during exposure to natural and urban environments. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 11(3), 201–230. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0272-4944(05)80184-7
- Stuckey, H. L., & Nobel, J. (2010). The Connection between Art, Healing, and Public Health: a Review of Current Literature. American Journal of Public Health, 100(2), 254–263. https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.2008.156497
- Carlson, L. E., Speca, M., Patel, K. D., & Goodey, E. (2003). Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction in Relation to Quality of Life, Mood, Symptoms of Stress, and Immune Parameters in Breast and Prostate Cancer Outpatients. Psychosomatic Medicine, 65(4), 571–581. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.psy.0000074003.35911.41
- Ahn, J. H., Kim, M. Effects of Aromatherapy on Cancer Patients’ Sleep and Fatigue: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Integr Complement Med. 2023 Apr;29(4):212-223. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/jicm.2022.0601
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