As the leaves start to change color and a crisp chill fills the air, there’s something undeniably enchanting about the arrival of autumn. For those in recovery, this season offers countless opportunities for fun and creativity. Whether you’re starting your journey or you have a few years under your sleeve, here’s a list of enjoyable autumn activities and delectable recipes to savor while staying sober.

Fun sober autumn activities to try

  1. Visit a pumpkin patch: Gather your friends or family and head to a local pumpkin patch and embrace the autumn spirit by picking out the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating.
  2. Go apple picking: Take a trip to an orchard and pick your own apples. It’s not only a great way to connect with nature but also provides the freshest ingredients for some delicious fall recipes.
  3. Take a scenic nature hike: Fall is a fantastic time for hiking. Witness the breathtaking transformation of the landscape as the leaves change colors — be sure to bring along some warm apple cider or hot cocoa to enjoy along the way.
  4. Have an outdoor movie night: Set up an outdoor movie screening in your backyard or at a local park. Invite friends and family, lay out cozy blankets, and enjoy classic autumn films with some homemade popcorn.
  5. Try your hand at some arts and crafts: Get your creative juices flowing with autumn-themed arts and crafts. Try your hand at making leaf garlands, decorating pinecones, or crafting your own fall-themed decorations.
  6. Take cooking classes: Sign up for cooking or baking classes to learn new recipes and techniques. Fall offers a plethora of seasonal ingredients to experiment with, from squash to cranberries and other delicious seasonal goodies.

On that note of cooking, here are a few recipes to try this autumn!

Delicious autumn recipes to cook

  1. Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash, onions and carrots, then blend them together with vegetable broth and a dash of nutmeg. This creamy soup is both comforting and healthy.
  2. Apple Crisp: Slice up those freshly picked apples, toss them with cinnamon and sugar, and top with a crunchy oatmeal and butter mixture. Bake until golden brown, and you have a warm and inviting dessert.
  3. Pumpkin Spice Latte: It’s an autumn staple! Create your own version of the beloved autumnal drink by mixing brewed coffee with steamed milk, pumpkin puree, and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for a delightful treat.You can also opt for caffeine-free coffee if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
  4. Stuffed Acorn Squash: Cut acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Fill with a mixture of quinoa, cranberries, pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup. Roast until tender for a savory and sweet dish.
  5. Caramel Apples: Dip apples into homemade caramel sauce and roll them in chopped nuts, crushed cookies or chocolate chips for a sweet and satisfying treat.
  6. Autumn Harvest Salad: Combine mixed greens with roasted sweet potatoes, sliced pears, candied pecans and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette for a healthy and flavorful salad.
  7. Hot Mulled Cider: Heat up apple cider with cinnamon sticks, cloves and a slice of orange. Serve in a cozy mug and enjoy!

Mental wellness tips to help with sobriety

  1. Practice meditation: Meditation is a great way to stop, reflect and redirect our thoughts in a positive manner. There are many ways to practice meditation — try a couple to find the right one for you.
  2. Volunteer with a cause you’re passionate about: Volunteering is a great way to find new friends and help others. Check your local community for any seasonal organizations and make it an event with your friends and family.
  3. Journal your thoughts: If you haven’t started journaling, now is always a great time to start! Find a fun diary (or maybe a digital app) and fun pens to jot down your thoughts. Having a space to be vulnerable and express your feelings can help you see situations from a different perspective.

Planning substance-free activities for the autumn season can be a fun way to start new traditions and create memories while in recovery. By having fun excursions, hosting sober events and focusing on self-care, you can partake in fun activities that don’t put your sobriety at risk. So, this year, set your intention to have a cozy, fun and sober Autumn that you’ll remember for years to come.