Goodbye Gloom - 5 Ways To Fall For This Funky Season...

At this time of year, as autumn turns to winter, it's so easy to fall into melancholy.  The nights are drawing in, the days are often drizzly and the sparkle of Christmas isn't close enough to brighten the darkened skies.  So, when the gloom begins to take hold, I try to remember to be extra kind to myself.  Sometimes, hidden under all the fallen leaves, we can discover a season full of wonderful gifts, surprises and creative inspiration!  So, here are my Top 5 ways to celebrate this season!  Kicking through the big piles of fallen leaves is optional.....

1  Sunshine On A Rainy Day

When the elements aren't too inviting, it can seem like there's really nothing to do but slump into a chair and switch on the telly.  Instead, have a look in the local what's-on guides - you're bound to find something to pique your interest! When was the last time you treated yourself to a visit to a gallery, museum, exhibition, concert, theatre show or cinema? This weekend, I'm off to Edinburgh to an exhibition by one of my favourite Funky Scottish artists, Sonas MacLean...

You can also see the work of Sonas MacLean on display in Funky Scottish

2 Wrap Up Warm And Head For The Coast

I love getting all bundled up in funky knitwear and braving the elements!  Away from technology and everyday chores, it's amazing how quickly a low, lethargic mood can be blown away.  Scientists have even proven that the extra ozone in the air around the seaside can really boost our energy levels....

Enjoying The Calm Between The Seasonal Storms

3 - Doodle & Daydream

If you're likely to be literally blow away when you step out the front door - and we've seen plenty of days like that here in the East Neuk - it might be best to stay at home.  This is the perfect excuse to batten down the hatches, light a few candles, make yourself a big mug of hot chocolate (or tea...or coffee) and get your notebook out...then indulge in a bit of creative daydreaming!  Write gratitude lists, plan your next big project, write down your wishes for the future or just doodle away an evening...

Find candles & my 'Sea Pottery' notebook and mug at the Funky Scottish boutique

4  Have A Lazy Lunch

I know, most of us are mostly busy most of the time....but now and again, we deserve to head out on the town for a wee pick-me-up with a few of our favourite folks! One of the funkiest new places to enjoy brunch, lunch, coffees or dinner is Mitchells in St Andrews.  The former butcher shop has retained some of the original character and mixed it up with industrial chic meets autumnal tweed and a retro diner vibe - the menu is fabulous too!

 

5 - Get Creative

A little time out can do wonders for your creativity, so don't be surprised if you find yourself brimming with inspiration. Follow the urge and see where it takes you!  What do you love to do?  It may be taking pictures of the stormy seas, writing a short story, painting, cooking or baking, re-decorating, organising your photo albums and trinkets, pottery or some other craft!  This is the perfect time of year to do something creative and who knows, what you produce might just turn into the perfect gift for someone special. After all, the sparkle of Christmas isn't really so far off ....

Autumn Bowl - One Of My Own Recent Creations!