5 Ways to Celebrate Fall With All Your Senses

Updated on 10/9/2014 at 6:00 AM

It's impossible not to notice the crackle of leaves underfoot, the sight of gourds galore, and the enticing scent of an apple pie baking somewhere — all signs that Fall is in the air. And it's a season that begs to be experienced with all the senses. So what are you waiting for? Source: Shutterstock

See It: Run Outside

The crisp air and a picturesque setting make this the perfect time of year to take your cardio routine outdoors. Walk, run, bike, and hike, all while taking in the colorful beauty of the season. During your cooldown (or in your downtime), stop to collect some natural elements that you can easily incorporate into your home decor. Aim to create interesting arrangements with branches in a vase or along the mantel. Make a simple yet elegant centerpiece by filling a clear glass container with acorns. Or make a pinecone wreath for your front door.

Smell It: Fall Scents

Store-bought candles, sprays, and room diffusers in scents like apple, vanilla, and spice are the easiest way to fill your home with Fall fragrance. But if you're feeling crafty, there are lots of fun (and still simple!) DIY options that double as decor, too! Wrap unscented candles in cinnamon sticks tied with rustic string for a centerpiece that smells as good as it looks. For an old-world touch, make your own decorative pomanders by sticking whole cloves into an orange. Create patterns with the clove design for a natural spicy scent that's also a great conversation piece.

Hear It: Read by the Fire

Walt Whitman, William Shakespeare, and Elizabeth Barrett Browning are just some of the literary greats who have written about the wonder of Fall. Assemble a collection of your favorites and make your next book club meeting a poetry reading, or plan a romantic evening with your sweetie and take turns sharing passages by the fire.

Feel It: Lots of Layers

From your wardrobe to your living space, Fall is all about layers and textures — think wooly, woven, and velvety. Add a plush fur throw or an eye-catching tartan blanket over a chair or ottoman. Replace the toss pillows on your couch, or buy some zip-on covers. If you have bare floors, consider throwing down some smaller area rugs that feel warm and inviting underfoot. And since regulating indoor temperature this time of year can be tricky, be sure to have your favorite fleecy jacket, cozy sweater, and fuzzy slippers handy so you can always find a bit of snuggly comfort.

Taste It: Pumpkin Bars

Enjoy the classic Fall flavors like pumpkin, vanilla, cinnamon, and ginger with this recipe from Weight Watchers. Bake up a batch of pumpkin bars and savor the flavor whenever you're in the mood for something sweet.

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Source: Weight Watchers