For many, autumn is their favourite season. But why? The end of long and lazy summer holidays and sunshiny days must surely be a sadness and yet there is something about autumn that gives comfort and security. Maybe it’s the return to routine and a predictable schedule; back to school, colleagues in the office every day and perhaps time for a fresh start.
For others it will be savouring the outdoors and making the most of those daylight hours. The autumn light is often unique with crisp starts to the days and possibly balmy afternoons. The cooler temperatures and spectacular foliage encourage us to spend time in nature, boosting our mental wellbeing and our physical health. Research has shown a strong correlation between getting outside and improvements in happiness, wellbeing, and a sense of purpose. By taking in extra oxygen, more hormone serotonin will be released which is responsible for happiness.
Experience the autumnal colours along the hedgerows and in our woodlands. The tapestries of reds, oranges, golds, and browns are a spectacular backdrop to a walk, a bike ride, or a run. Feel and hear the crunch of freshly fallen leaves beneath your feet and the wind on your face.
Whilst we walk, cycle, hike and watch wildlife throughout the year, foraging is an activity that reaps great rewards in autumn. As the countryside bursts with produce, why not grab a basket and go hunting.
Be mindful to pick only what you need and leave plenty for the wildlife who will depend on these berries, nuts, and seeds throughout the coming months.
Sweet chestnuts in their spiky husks are fantastic roasted over a fire whilst walnuts are less common and require drying before using.
Rosehips are packed with vitamin C and therefore great at warding off those winter colds. Use in jams and jellies with a tangy taste but be sure to avoid the tiny hairs inside.
Sloes are not something to be eaten from the hedgerow. Their bitter taste will dry your mouth so gather these dark blue fruits and seep in gin for a few months to make great Christmas presents. Prick each sloe with a needle or place in the freezer to break the skins and allow the juices out. Add sugar and allow to mix for 2 months before bottling.
Picking blackberries may appeal to all the family and almost certainly the resulting delicious apple and blackberry crumble will!
If you are looking for a birthday present, an anniversary gift or a thank you token for a loved one or friend who will embrace the autumnal outdoors, look no further than Baydon Grange Gifts. Source key outdoor essentials: you will find a vacuum flask for a warming soup, a notebook to record wildlife spotted, household snips for trimming wild rose stems, and a dog lead, collar, and poo bags for your dog in a smart country tweed.
Check out Baydon Grange Gifts at baydongrangegifts.co.uk for great gifts ideas for country gifts.