At its essence, the fall equinox—and autumn at large—are about balance. Day and night meet in length as we are ushered into the last leg of the year in which everyone seems overcome with cravings for all things spiced and attempts at committing to more things than is humanly possible. Through it all, your yoga practice remains as essential as ever. So why not make it a place of refuge?

By incorporating some subtle shifts, your time on the mat is easily transmuted into a sweet, slow, comforting ritual well matched to the season.

15 Ways to Change Up Your Yoga Routine for Fall

1. Fall is drenched in warm light, so why not add some to your home practice, whether through tiny flames, dimmed lights, or a golden hour flow.

2. If it’s not too cold, take your yoga outside to a park or your own backyard. Bundle up at the outset and remove layers as your practice heats up.

3. Fall is the perfect time for a cleanse. Sort through your yoga wardrobe, clean and reorganize your props, sanitize your mat, and get rid of any unnecessary yoga-related clutter.

4. Adjust your playlist. Opt for fall-themed movie soundtracks (so nostalgic) or a random autumnal playlist on Spotify.

5. Make getting dressed ahead of a studio class a new ritual. Cozy up to make your journey to the studio and back a warm one. 

6. Loosen up (or simply change up) your wardrobe. Try wide-legged yoga pants instead of leggings, or trade your tight tank for a well-worn tee. Comfort is king.

7. Honor the fall equinox with a themed practice, meditation, or celebration.

8. Restorative practices tend to ask that you make yourself entirely comfortable, blankets at all, but fall invites you to bundle up and calm down more than usual during reclined poses, including Savasana, regardless of class style.

9. While you’re at it, extend the blanketed, bolstered approach to your meditation practice, too.

10. Autumn’s energy is infused with change. Embody the shift by trying a new studio or trading your regular class for something different.

11. Enjoy the scents of the season with the help of essential oils. Add drops of cinnamon, clove, sage, or any other natural aroma that evokes autumn to your wrists and breathe it in throughout your practice.

12. You guessed it—it’s time to revisit that gratitude journal. If you’re not quite ready (or the idea grates), try identifying one small thing you feel grateful for each morning or evening.

13. Better yet, start savoring, aka taking intentional pleasure in everyday moments and experiences, including the poses that you usually rush through.

14. Practice saying no—and yes! With the holidays approaching, boundaries are essential. Listen to your body and intuition and do what’s best for you on and off the mat.

15. Fall brings its own swirling energies and events. Slow things down by leaning into your breath.