If you’re anything like me, autumn is a season you look forward to all year long. There's something magical about this time of year, where the air is crisp, the light is softer and the world seems to slow down just enough to let us breathe a little deeper.
As the leaves fall, so too should we let go of what no longer serves us, making space for rest, reflection and renewal.
Hey, I'm Laura, founder of Rock + Realm , and as a gardener and observer of the Wheel of the Year, I’m especially drawn to transitional periods when the natural world is a living reminder that life, like the seasons, is cyclical. These cycles invite us to pause and reflect: to look inward at the seeds we need to plant, to celebrate the fruits of our labour and to consider what might be holding us back that we can release from our lives.
With autumn inviting us to slow down and reflect, it’s also the perfect time to surround ourselves with small comforts that nurture both body and soul. To help you fully embrace the cosy season, I’ve handpicked five delightful treats from small businesses I love, and a few from Rock + Realm, that are perfect for bringing warmth and relaxation into your autumn self-care routine. So, grab a cuppa, snuggle up and let's dive into some seasonal essentials!
Nurture Your Spirit: 8 Small Business Treats to Enhance Your Autumn Self-Care Routine
Autumn is the perfect opportunity to transform your home into a snug, inviting sanctuary — a place filled with all the warm, homely delights that make you feel grounded and comforted, no matter what’s happening outside. Let’s take a moment to create that perfect indoor retreat, with a few handpicked treasures from small businesses that are sure to bring warmth, tranquility and a touch of self care into your life this cosy season.
1. Create a Sacred Space with Soothing Artwork
The spaces we inhabit have a profound impact on our energy and mood, and the right artwork can transform a room into a true autumnal sanctuary to retreat to when the weather turns chilly. By consciously curating artwork that energises and inspires you, you can create a sacred space that positively impacts your sense of wellbeing everyday.
The "This Must Be the Place" Art Print is a perfect example of how a simple yet meaningful piece can elevate your space, bringing a sense of peace, presence and grounding into your surroundings. With its gentle nature inspire aesthetic and inspiring message, this print serves as a visual reminder to embrace where you are in the moment, both physically and spiritually. It encourages you to find comfort in your environment and to be fully present in the here and now.
Autumn Home Decor Tip: Place this whimsical woodland print in your personal sanctuary or meditation area to enhance the room’s ambiance. It’s the perfect finishing touch to a space where you retreat for quiet reflection, journaling or simply soaking in the peaceful energy of home.
Katie McArthur, founder of Skudaboo says:
"As the weather gets colder, we naturally find ourselves spending more time indoors. This makes it even more important to create a home that's special and comforting. Art prints are the perfect way to achieve this. The "This Must Be the Place" art print is a perfect addition, making your home into a cosy sanctuary. The beautiful forest scene brings a touch of nature inside, making your space feel warm and inviting."
The print’s pastel tones and serene design make it versatile enough to fit into any decor style, whether your home leans toward minimalism or a more eclectic, cosy feel. Every time you glance at it, you’re reminded that you’re exactly where you need to be, fostering a sense of belonging and contentment in your space.
UK Small Business Spotlight - Skudaboo
Skudaboo, run by Katie in Bristol UK, is a handpicked collection of affordable and eclectic giclée art prints, frames and home décor that showcases amazing artists from around the world.
Shop 'This Must Be the Place' Art Print from £10Visit the Skudaboo website
2. Create a Cosy Grounding Corner with an Autumnal Rug
As the days grow shorter and the crispness of autumn settles in, creating a space that feels warm and grounding becomes more important than ever. The Studio Tuft 'Mulled' Burgundy, Pink, and Red Hand-Tufted Rug is the perfect way to bring that sense of comfort and cosiness into your home. With its rich jewel tones and soft, textured finish, this rug adds a touch of warmth and luxury to any room. But beyond its beauty, this rug invites you to slow down and truly connect with your surroundings
Autumn Home Decor Tip: Add a warm, autumn-toned rug to your living room or a reading nook to create a cosy little corner perfect for curling up and grounding yourself. It’s the ideal spot to sink your toes into, get comfy, and feel connected to the season’s soothing energy.
Jessie James, Studio Tuft Founder & Rug Maker says
'Cosy up your home this Autumn with a one of a kind tufted rug, choose a jewel tone colour scheme for a extra luxurious feel. These tufted rugs are like functional art for your floors, brighten up your home and give it that little refresh ready for hunkering down for winter.'
Imagine placing this sumptuous rug in your meditation or reading space, where the deep burgundy and red tones echo the vibrant autumn leaves outside your window. It’s a tactile, grounding addition that draws you in, inviting you to sink your feet into its softness as you take a moment to unwind. Whether you’re settling in for an evening of quiet reflection or curling up with a book and a cup of tea, this rug creates the perfect cosy spot to retreat to as the temperatures drop. What part of your home could use a little more warmth this autumn?
UK Small Business Spotlight - Studio Tuft
Studio Tuft is a small sustainably run business aiming to bring colour and joy to your floors with beautiful hand tufted rugs lovingly made in the Cotswolds, UK. Designer Maker Jessie James, creates her mid-century inspired tufted artwork and rugs using the finest yarns and sourcing deadstock that would otherwise go to waste.
Shop 'Mulled' Hand Tufted Red, Pink & Burgundy Small Rug £345
Visit Studio Tuft's Website
Follow Jessie's latest work on her Instagram @studiotuft
3. Nourish Your Soul with Indulgent Chocolate Brownies
There’s something about the crisp air of autumn that makes indulgence feel almost necessary — and what better way to treat yourself than with a Chocolate Brownie Gift Box? Rich, decadent and oh-so-satisfying, these brownies are the perfect comfort food for those cooler days when you just want to curl up indoors. Each bite feels like a warm hug for your soul, providing the kind of joy that only a truly good chocolate treat can offer.
Autumn Self-Care Tip: Treat yourself to one of these rich chocolate brownies during a peaceful moment, perhaps with a warm cup of your favourite tea. Taking the time to indulge in something sweet is an act of self-love, because you deserve those moments of pure comfort and joy.
Gemma Farquhar, Founder of The Brownie Box says
"Our bestseller brownies are like a cozy autumn hug in a box! We will wrap them up in an autumnal-themed package, tie it up with a bow, and add a personalised note for that extra sprinkle of thoughtfulness. Send them directly to your favourite people or treat yourself, you deserve it!"
As the leaves fall and the pace of life slows down, it's the perfect time to prioritise self-care in the form of small, mindful pleasures.
My favourite weekend treat in Autumn after a chilly countryside walk is to snuggle down under a cosy blanket with my dog on my lap and a steaming cup of relaxing herbal tea paired with a chocolatey treat that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re enjoying a moment of stillness between tasks or taking a well deserved break at the end of the day, these brownies make the perfect companion for your Autumn self-care ritual.
UK Small Business Spotlight - The Brownie Box
The Brownie Box is a family run business specialising in Postal Brownie Boxes for every occasion, hand making their delicious Brownies and Blondies in Cheshire using responsibly sourced local ingredients.
4. Update Your Seasonal Wardrobe with a Touch of Magic
Autumn is the perfect time to reconnect with your inner self, and the Purple Amethyst Necklace from Militza Ortiz Jewellery offers more than just a stylish addition to your wardrobe — it’s a spiritual talisman that brings a sense of calm, protection and healing.
Known for its ability to soothe the mind and shield against negative energy, Amethyst has long been regarded as a stone of spiritual clarity and connection. As the world outside shifts and transforms, wearing this necklace can serve as a gentle reminder to stay grounded and centred in your own energy, even during life’s seasonal transitions.
Autumn Style Tip: Wear this necklace daily as both a beautiful accessory and a spiritual touchstone. Whether you’re going about your day or using it during meditation, the amethyst’s protective energy will help keep you connected to your inner peace and spiritual practice throughout the season.
Militza Ortiz, Jewellery Designer Maker says
'Add a touch of autumn to your wardrobe. With a rich and regal faceted purple amethyst this necklace can enhance any jumper. Contrast it against those rich autumn colours like rust, mustard yellow or even an olive green to make it stand out.'
Handcrafted in Wimbledon, UK, from recycled sterling silver and generously coated in 18-carat gold, this piece is not only a stunning accessory but also a mindful choice for those who value ethical craftsmanship.
UK Small Business Spotlight - Militza Ortiz Jewellery
Militza Ortiz, founder of Militza Ortiz Jewellery, designs and creates each piece of handcrafted jewellery in her beautiful collection, giving attention to every little detail, and offering personal, one of a kind jewellery services from her London-based studio.
Shop Purple Amethyst Pendant Necklace £260
5. Indulge in a Spot of Nature Inspired Mindful Creativity
As autumn invites us to slow down and reflect, there’s no better time to explore mindful creativity. The All-In-One Fabric Block Printing Craft Kit is a wonderful way to engage your hands and mind in something both calming and deeply personal. Crafting during the quieter, reflective months of autumn offers a sense of grounding and allows you to tap into your own creativity, turning it into a form of mindfulness. With this Botanical textile block print craft kit, you can bring your unique designs to life, all while embracing the therapeutic rhythm of printing and creating.
Creative Mindfulness Tip: Use this Botanical Textile Stamping Kit to design prints that reflect the autumnal scenes that surround you on your weekend woodland walks. By incorporating the changing colours and textures of the season, you capture the essence of autumn and also bring a piece of that peaceful, mindful energy into your home.
Silvina De Vita, Papercut Artist & Founder of My Papercut Forest says
‘Embrace Autumn creativity with our all-in-one block printing kit, perfect for crafting at home. This kit has everything you need for a delightful, screen-free afternoon of crafting. Choose from three stunning color palettes to create a unique tea towel that will brighten your kitchen. Whether you're treating yourself or looking for the ideal gift, this craft kit is a must-have for a relaxing and rewarding experience’
The beauty of this craft kit lies not just in the final product but in the process itself. As you design your own patterns and press them onto fabric, you’ll find yourself slowing down, focusing on the details and enjoying the mindful practice of making something by hand. Whether you’re new to block printing or an experienced crafter, the kit provides everything you need to get started, making it an easy and fulfilling activity to enjoy during the autumn months.
UK Small Business Spotlight - My Papercut Forest
My Papercut Forest, run by Designer and Papercut Artist Silvina from her studio in Brighton, UK, offers a wide range of handmade artworks, including paper craft kits, miniature paper domes, illustrations, prints, greeting cards and other unique objects.
Shop Botanical Block Printing Kit from £38.00
6. Unwind on Sundays with My Autumn Self-Care Routine
Sundays are an ideal time to slow down, reflect and create a nurturing self-care routine that helps you reset for the week ahead. As autumn invites us to embrace the quieter moments, dedicating time to introspection and relaxation can deepen your connection to your intuition and bring a sense of calm amidst the seasonal change.
As Rock + Realm is here to help you find peaceful, spiritual balance in your life, I couldn't resist including a few of my favourite Rock + Realm autumnal products that will leave you feeling grounded, rested and ready to ease into the new week. Here's my go-to Sunday routine, that's perfect for the darker months of the year when you're ready to cosy up and turn inwards.
- Start with our RELEASE Mindful Herbal Tea Ritual, a calming blend including chamomile, lavender and lemon balm, to ease into the day with a peaceful moment of introspection. Beyond the act of sipping tea, our tea ritual is a gateway to mindfulness. Taking just five minutes to sit in calm silence with a cup of RELEASE tea provides the space to reflect, release tension and nurture inner serenity.
- Follow this with a quick reflection using the Woodland Wardens Oracle Deck — pulling a card or two to set intentions for the week ahead can deepen your connection to your intuition. Uncover the secrets of the forest as you explore the deck's whimsical nature inspired pairings, such as the cat and the lavender. Each combination offers a gateway to deeper understanding, inviting you to reflect on your journey and unlock the hidden messages that nature has in store for you.
- As the evening winds down, indulge in a warm cleansing Epsom salt and lavender oil bath to relax your body, then apply the REST Crystal Aromatherapy Pulse Point Roller (with soothing lavender, chamomile and neroli oils) to promote deep, restful sleep.
Autumn Self-Care Tip: As the autumn days grow shorter and cooler, embrace the seasonal shift by creating a Sunday routine that reflects the slower, more introspective energy of fall. Use this time to unwind and reconnect with yourself, taking cues from the natural world to release stress and prepare for the week ahead.
'I personally love our REST Crystal Aromatherapy Oil Pulse Roller as the perfect companion for unwinding during crisp autumn evenings. As you inhale the calming scents of lavender and chamomile, you can let go of the day's tensions, exhaling stress and inviting deep relaxation.' - Laura R., Founder of Rock + Realm
The act of slowing down and incorporating simple self-care rituals like mindfully sipping herbal tea, reflecting with oracle cards and soothing your nervous system with aromatherapy, mirrors the season's theme of rest and renewal. Following nature's cue will help you recharge and find balance as you move through autumn’s transformative energy.
Shop Our Autumn Hygge Sanctuary Collection
Embrace Cosy Season Self Care with Handcrafted Small Business Autumnal Treats
Autumn is a time to slow down, reflect and embrace the warmth of home. It’s about finding comfort in the small things, surrounding yourself with little self care treats that not only bring you joy but also help you connect with yourself on a deeper level.
I hope you’ve found some inspiration in my favourite cosy-season essentials to help bring warmth, comfort and a sense of grounding into your home. Whether it’s adding a few autumnal touches or indulging in a new self-care ritual, these pieces are sure to make your space feel like the perfect retreat.
And if you’re looking for more ideas to help embrace autumn’s cosy spirit, don’t forget to check out our Autumn Self-Care and Decor Essentials collection.
Here’s to making the most of this beautiful season — one warm, snug and soul-nourishing moment at a time.
A Spotlight on Us - Rock + Realm
Rock + Realm is an ethical spiritual retailer, specialising in crystals, incense, jewellery, spiritual wellness and more. As an independent, female-owned UK business I care deeply about supporting women to be their best selves through nurturing their spiritual wellbeing using ancient wisdom for modern woes.