It only feels like five minutes ago we were sipping pints in sunny St John’s. Suddenly, it’s all about crunchy leaves, cinnamon buns and cosy cardigans.
And we’re so ready to romanticise the heck out of it.
Autumn has hit Manchester with a bang. Even if this time of year isn’t your go-to aesthetic, there’s so much to love about it.
Are you still in summer mode? Not ready to embrace the cold yet?
Here at Union, we know the change of season can take some getting used to. Let us show you how cosy season is really done.
So, here are our favourite things to get you into the autumn spirit.
Get outside
Golden trees. Forest floors covered in leaves. A slight chill in the air. Ugh. Dreamy.
Autumn is when the world looks its most whimsical. So why not get out there and coo at the colours of nature?
Yes, it’ll probably be rainy. You might even get a bit muddy. But don’t let the inevitable stop you from experiencing the magic of this changing season.
Grab your rain jacket, and turn those grey skies into a great opportunity to reconnect with nature. Autumn will be over before you know it, so make the most of it.
At Union, you’re only a short train journey away from the beautiful Peak District. You’re spoilt for picturesque forests, rolling hills and cosy pubs that are literally on your doorstep.
Want to go for a walk somewhere more local? Castlefield Canal, Dunham Massey, Fletcher Moss and Tatton Parks are some of our favourite autumn spots.
Shift your mindset
Going into something with a negative mindset can massively influence the outcome.
Hold up, though. Don’t get us wrong. We’re not saying that we’re absolutely buzzing for grey skies, darker mornings and constant “where did I put my umbrella?” moments.
But being positive about something is a choice.
If you’re someone who famously hates this time of year, we challenge you to try switching your brain. Pick out the positives. Focus on them by building them into your everyday habits.
Miss being able to enjoy a coffee outside? Treat yourself to a new mug. Hate walking around in the rain? A new jacket you can show off may make those moments a little easier. Want to be back in a beer garden with your mates? Find a cosy pub with a great selection of board games.
Perspective is powerful, and there are cathedrals everywhere for those with eyes to see them. Get cleaning your glasses.
Bake, bake, bake
The summer salads were fun. Gelato had its moment, and rightly so. But c’mon. Autumn sweet treats are the absolute GOAT.
We’re talking gingerbread cookies, banana bread, and topping literally anything edible with cinnamon. It’s the ultimate comfort food, especially as it’s getting colder.
If the weather this weekend isn’t looking good, seize it as your opportunity to get adventurous in the kitchen.
Not a star baker? Start with the easy stuff. Paul Hollywood isn’t there to judge, so just have fun with it.
Your apartment is going to smell so good after.
Take the rest
Summer is for fast living. Your social calendar is full to the brim. The suitcase is constantly being repacked. Early morning runs have become normal.
The extra daylight makes us feel a pressure to constantly be doing something and self-optimising. While it’s fun to be super social and outdoors, it does mean that we can neglect downtime.
October is a natural time to shift into a lower gear. Give yourself permission to do less, and take guilt-free rest. Darker evenings mean no pressure, so take them as your opportunity to slow down.
Just look at the rest of the animal kingdom. Nature is going into hibernation, and humans are no different. We deserve recuperation, too.
Are you someone that gets bored easily?
Try taking up a new cosy hobby. Crafting, crocheting, sketching, journaling. Always wanted to be a chess grandmaster? Ay, now’s your chance.
Add small comforts
Embracing even the smallest rituals can make the transition of season a little easier.
Warm food. 10 pages a day. A new herbal tea. Low-lit lamps. Create an ambience that makes you feel peaceful. These are the small yet significant things that really can improve your day-to-day enjoyment.
Don’t underestimate the power of a comfort show. Gilmore Girls is basically autumn personified.
Want to experience autumn in the city? Our 10/10 location here at Union puts you in the middle of it. Our co-living apartments are ensuite with all bills included, so you can fully bed into the colder season with no faff.