5 Fun and Festive Sober Activities to Try This Fall

Autumn is almost here and that means the air is getting crisper and cafes are being swarmed with pumpkin spice latte orders. But beyond sweater weather and beverage trends, fall is a season full of opportunities for you to strengthen your recovery and have unforgettable fun. From adventurous outdoor activities to unleashing art skills, these fall activities are sure to put a smile on your face!

Pick Some Apples

Have your pick of the bunch at an apple orchard! Apple picking is more fruitful than you may think. First off, apples are chock-full of antioxidants that lower inflammation, improve memory, and boost overall brain health. Not only are apples good for you but heading out to your nearest orchard to pick them is great for your mind and body. You will find yourself having fun as you exercise while also reaping the benefits that come along with immersing yourself in nature. Multiple studies have shown that spending time in nature improves mental health and decreases negative self-talk. And not to mention, your reward at the end of all the harvesting: sweet, tart, refreshing apples.

Travel Through a Corn Maze

Get ready for an a-MAZE-ing time, because fall is the season to find your way through a corn maze. You can expect to put your problem-solving hat on, as these mazes made of corn stalks often provide clues and many unpredictable twists and turns. As added bonuses, you unintentionally work on memory and cognitive skills as well as get your day’s exercise in.

Look Out for Scares in a Haunted House

For many, fall is synonymous with Halloween, so you might want to get a little spooked! If that’s the case, get ready to see all types of creatures – including witches, vampires, and ghosts – as you walk through a haunted house full of actors ready to jump-scare you. And going through a haunted house can surprisingly benefit you beyond the entertainment factor. Picture this: as you enter the home of ghouls and goblins, your senses become occupied with this new world. As a result, you can forget about the worries of your everyday life for a little while. Who knew haunted houses could indirectly ease your mind?

Carve the Pumpkin of Your Dreams

Have yourself a pumpkin party and let your imagination run wild as you carve an image onto your pumpkin. This is a chance to free your mind and produce something that is your very own. You can even trace some premade stencils if you prefer some artistic direction. Once completed, you will feel a sense of accomplishment for creating something. Studies show that participating in artistic activities can improve your memory and better your mood, so pumpkin carving is a sure win-win! Plop a battery-operated candle into your hollow pumpkin and TADA! You have your very own jack o’ lantern.

Get Your Hike On

Hiking past green trees is lovely, but wouldn’t the orange and red hues of fall make the experience even more breathtaking? We think so! And autumn is a great time for scenic hikes because you don’t have to worry about working up a sweat in high temperatures, since the air is newly crisp. Beyond the amazing views and the exercise that comes along with hiking are the mental health benefits. Studies show that there are numerous perks to forest bathing, such as reduced stress, increased energy and alertness, and reduced blood pressure. So, head out to your nearest nature trail and enjoy the view!

You will be impressed by how invigorated a little fall excitement can make you feel. Whether it’s facing your fears in a haunted house or taking a moment for yourself on a scenic hike, embracing lighthearted pleasures can boost your overall wellness. So put the tricks aside and get ready to treat yourself with some fall fun!