Get Cozy: Preparing Your Home for Fall

M. Hakikah Shamsideen
Sep 23
4 min read

A cozy autumn retreat: A sunlit nook with a brown easy chair, a yellow plaid blanket, a small table holding glass vase with dried flower arrangement, tea and orange juice, and a picturesque view through a large window.

Here is the fourth of four blogs in my September series. The theme for this month is

“Living in Rhythm: Preparing Spirit, Home, and Body for the Season Ahead”

Making Home a Haven: Preparing Your Sacred Space for Fall

Home is where rhythms, rest, and seasons converge. I see God’s presence everywhere. Living outside the city makes my favorite time of the year even more special. However, we don't need to search for God; God lives within us. As the days become shorter and the air takes on a crisp autumn feel, home naturally becomes more central to our daily lives. Autumn encourages us to slow down, gather in, and prepare our sacred spaces for rest and renewal. With intention, you can transform your home into a haven that not only welcomes others but also nurtures your spirit throughout the upcoming season.

Being born in the fall, I've always eagerly anticipated the season. I loved watching the leaves transform, the unique scent in the air, and even wearing sweaters. Although I never used the word "cozy," that's precisely the feeling I experienced. I cherished returning to my family, a warm home, and the comforting meal we shared every night. The warmth primarily came from my parents. We didn't have much financially, but their love and the structured routine of our home provided a sense of security. At the time, I took it for granted, but now I realize it was a genuine blessing. As I grew older, I experienced periods of depression around the holidays because our family dynamic changed, but with therapy, time, and my faith, I learned to enjoy fall again.

Declutter with Intention

Now that I approach the seasons with intention, Fall is an ideal time for what I like to call a “sacred reset.” Just as trees release their leaves, we too can learn from them and let go of what no longer serves us. Begin by decluttering intentionally.

Prepare for company: Holidays and gatherings are approaching. A clean, uncluttered home makes welcoming others easier and more joyful.
Storing summer items: Put away lightweight linens, beach towels, and summer clothing and décor. This creates space and signals the shift into a new season.
Refresh your space: As you clear out, open your windows if the weather permits, burn sage or diffuse essential oils, and let the energy of your home feel lighter and freer.

This is more than tidying up—it’s a spiritual practice of release; it's creating sacred space. As you sort and put away, speak a prayer of gratitude for the season past and your intention for the season ahead. Consider anointing your home’s entryways with oil and blessing each room as you prepare it for the months ahead.

Add Cozy & Seasonal Touches

Once your space is decluttered, it’s time to add warmth and seasonal charm. Autumn décor can be simple, natural, and deeply grounding.

Natural décor: Think pumpkins, gourds, dried flowers, or branches gathered from outside.
Candles & warm colors: Incorporate candlelight, throws, and pillows in tones of amber, burgundy, and deep green.
Seasonal altar: Create or refresh a small altar space with items that represent the season—perhaps a bowl of acorns, a scripture card, or a photo of loved ones.

These elements serve a purpose beyond mere decoration. They embody the season's inner workings: nurturing warmth, enhancing beauty, and preparing for rest. Contrary to what social media might imply, each season doesn't necessitate a big shopping spree. While it may be tempting, these purchases don't create a joyful sacred space; you do. I treasured the moments when my mother would bring out decorations from past seasons. It was our family tradition. You can do the same for your family—whether it's a family of eight, like mine (including pets), or just you. Simple changes, like pillows, candles, and simmering pots of potpourri, can effectively invite the season's energy.

Home Reflects Spirit

Our homes are more than physical structures; they are living reflections of the spirit within us. When we take time to prepare, declutter, and adorn them with seasonal care, we honor both the outer and inner sanctuaries of our lives.

This fall, may your home be a haven—welcoming, peaceful, and sacred. And as you prepare your space, may you also find yourself prepared: to release what has passed, to embrace the present moment, and to rest fully in the beauty of the season. Below is a link to the recipe for a seasonal simmer pot.*