November is here, and every year I think the same, that it is the unsung gem of autumn. Autumn is a beautiful season and one which is a favourite to many people. It is so easy to get swept up in all things autumn, pumpkins and Halloween on the one side and Christmas on the other. However there is this little month in between that so often goes unnoticed, a month that is so beautiful in it’s scenery, it’s crisp air, golden leaves and quiet charm. November is truly the unsung hero of autumn and I want to help you notice it, embrace it and maybe just hold off those Christmas celebrations just a little while longer.
Savouring Autumn in Its Full Glory
I have always thought that one of the true joys of November is it’s breathtaking autumn foliage. The trees, more than ever, are adorned in shades of red, orange and gold. You only have to walk into any park or green space and just be wowed by the picturesque backdrop. And while I know November is so unloved because the dark is drawing in, and winter is just around the corner, it’s also a time to take leisurely walks, capturing the stunning colours of the season and allowing ourselves to be enchanted by nature’s artwork.
It might be cold outside but there is also no lack of comforting, late autumnal foods inside. Whether it be hearty soups, freshly baked bread and pies, I know in my house the kitchen becomes a place of creativity and warmth. There’s something profoundly satisfying about savouring a warm, homemade meal on a chilly November evening.
The November Challenge: Holding Off on Christmas
I know some of you are screaming no at this thought, but stay with me. In a world where Christmas decorations often appear in shops well before Halloween, November presents us with the challenge of resisting the early holiday rush. It’s a chance to hold off on the twinkling lights and carols, allowing the anticipation to build and making the Christmas season even more magical when it finally arrives.
Delayed gratification is a virtue often overlooked in our instant-gratification culture. November encourages us to find joy in the waiting and to savour the moments leading up to the holiday season. The sense of anticipation can be as delightful as the event itself.
The Magic of November’s Quiet Moments
November brings shorter days and longer evenings as we roll ever close to winter solstice – where we experience our longest night. This creates an atmosphere of tranquility. Embracing the serenity of these moments can lead to self-reflection, creativity, and a sense of peace. It’s an ideal time to enjoy the simple pleasure of reading a book by a cosy fire or spending quality time with loved ones.
November’s Unmistakable Charm
I know, I know – November is cold. It is often remembered for its crisp, refreshing air that awakens the senses and reminds us that winter is just around the corner. It’s a time for long walks, outdoor adventures, and the invigorating feeling of being truly alive. The briskness of the air serves as a reminder to fully engage with the world around us.
As the last leaves fall and the world prepares for the slowness of winter, November offers us that last chance to truly embrace autumn. Observing this natural cycle can connect us to the rhythms of the Earth and remind us of our place within it.
Making the Most of November: A Tribute to Autumn’s Final Act
In a world that often rushes from one event to the next, November stands as a reminder to pause, breathe, and fully appreciate the season of autumn. It’s a time for gratitude, reflection, and the joy of anticipation. As we savour November’s unmistakable charm, we honour the beauty of the present moment.
Download my FREE Seasonal Living Guide
So there you have it! Me waxing lyrical about why we need to delay Christmas and enjoy November. You can find more of my seasonal thoughts and simple living tips over on my Podcast, just search for The Slow Living Collective wherever you get your podcasts.