The change in season can bring about so many wonderful things, like the feeling of a fresh start, new experiences, and the opportunity to partake in certain activities that only occur during certain parts of the year – like pumpkin picking, haunted hayrides, and attending fall festivals. Although I am a big fan of season change and participating in its many exciting aspects, I can also fall into the feeling of decreased energy or motivation, under or over stimulation around the holidays, and fatigue from lack of sunlight or shorter days. When feelings like this arise, I find comfort in activities that allow me to express myself in new and creative ways.  Here are some fall and winter activities that bring me joy that I encourage others to try!

• Create a new routine that makes you excited to wake up. By planning your day ahead of time, you may find that you can incorporate elements that will amplify your day. Some aspects I like to incorporate include prepping a new meal or buying my favorite snacks that I can enjoy throughout the day, taking out an outfit that will make me feel comfortable and confident, or even just preparing all of the materials I will need for the next day to make my morning smoother.
• Bring some color and fun into your home! One of my favorite things to do is reorganizing and decorating my living space. Rearranging furniture and having an elevated and clean-living area can bring you the feeling of a fresh start. With the holidays coming up, you may even be able to experiment with some fun seasonal decorations and lights!
• Try a new creative hobby that allows you to express yourself. I’ve found that attending guided paint sessions is such a fun and relaxing experience that not only allows you to convey emotions and feelings, but it can be a great bonding experience if you do so with friends or family. You can even use this art to decorate your living space!
  • MSAA’s Art Showcaseis a wonderful program in which you can also share your art with other individuals in the MS community! Every year, MSAA encourages participants to submit their artwork to be displayed via our digital Art Showcase. It is a very inspiring program for both participants and viewers alike. Now until January 10, 2025, share your art with MSAA!
  • MSAA also hosts a number of virtual art events through MSAA’s Improving Lives Through Art series. Join us for two virtual paint-along events hosted by Art Showcase artist, Hannah Garrison:
    • November 2024 Paint-Along on Tuesday, November 12 at 7 PM Eastern
    • March 2025 Paint-Along on Tuesday, March 4 at 7 PM Eastern
    • Register for these virtual events by clicking here.

Photo Source: Topo on Pinterest

All in all, coping with the change in season comes with many emotions and nuances, both which can be positive and unfavorable. Nonetheless, I hope you may find an outlet that allows you to not only get through this season, but hopefully enjoy it as well.