Fall is a beautiful time of year. The weather becomes perfect for cozy moments and snuggly sweaters. But it also becomes stressful too. Think family visits, big dinners, holiday parties, and all that shopping and gift giving. While it’s all fun, it can easily stress you out. That’s why you still need to take time to yourself to relax and unwind or else the holidays will eat you alive.

Here are some great ways to relax during fall that will keep the holidays merry and bright for you.

1. Get out in nature

Bundle up in your favorite cold weather clothes and head outdoors. That marvelous fall smell of leaves and fresh air will do your mind and spirit so much good. Even just a simple walk around your neighborhood or the nearby park for 10 minutes a day will make you feel whole again. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, we’re reminded that the world is an amazing place.

2. Curl up with a good book

It’s sad that most people don’t read books for pleasure anymore. If all that you’re reading are books to your kids at bedtime or tips for how to get your turkey just right on Thanksgiving, you’re not reading enough. Treat yourself to a good book today, one that piques your interest, and make time to read from it each day, even if you only have 20 minutes before going to bed. You’ll sleep better and the mental escape will do you so much good.

3. Bake up some love

Now before you panic about your waistline, remember that baking should be strategically. Yes, there’s time for treats but keeping them around for you to devour on your own is never a good idea. Instead, bake for others. You can bake up tasty gifts and package them. Have the kids help and it will be a fun memory you’ll always have together.

4. Make crafts

Not a fan of baking? Try making! Making crafts, that is. Crafts can be as simple or complex as you want and are full of imagination. You can turn old junk into gorgeous centerpieces for your holiday dinners or make them into unique gifts that everyone will love

5. Take a break with friends

Sure, we might talk to them every day via messenger, but we don’t fill our cup up enough with actual live encounters with our friends. Schedule your own play date with your favorite friends by meeting for coffee or cocoa or enjoying a fabulous lunch at that new restaurant that just opened up. Laughing together with friends is very healing for the soul.

6. Have a glass of red wine

Or a bottle. Just do so responsibly. Red wine is great for your heart and a little bit will help you relax incredibly. You can share it with friends or family, or simply sit by the fire and savor the complex flavors. Sometimes that’s all you need to find the joy in any season.

7. Get a massage to relax this fall

Post a job or request an appointment for a massage from Indulge Now.