October is here, and life is about to get busy! As I’m writing this, there are only 12 weeks until Christmas. The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is about to begin, so let me help you prepare by creating a simple fall self-care basket. But here’s the best part: you’re going to use things you already own. How cool is that?!

Having everything together takes the stress out of the “What should I do to relax?” dilemma. And please don’t get caught up in the word basket. You can use a tote bag, pretty box, bin, or another container you already have. The point is simply to keep your favorite self-care items together so that when you have a few minutes to yourself, you don’t have to spend that time gathering everything you need.

Why Create a Fall Self-Care Basket?

This time of year, we spend so much time thinking about ways to bring joy to our family and friends. But there’s generally someone we forget to put on the list: ourselves.

As the days become busier—and sometimes tiring or overwhelming—I want you to have a collection of little things that bring comfort, joy, and care to you. Place your self-care basket in an area of your home where you naturally relax. Maybe that’s beside your favorite chair in the living room, in your bedroom, or even in the bathroom if a long soak is your favorite way to unwind.

Where do you find peace in your home? If you haven’t found your place yet, read my Every Woman Needs a Self-Care Place blog. I share ideas for creating your own peaceful space at home, whether you live here in the Los Angeles South Bay or anywhere else where life seems to move a little too quickly.

What to Include in Your Self-Care Basket

Your basket should be as unique as you are. Think about what helps you slow down, feel cared for, and recharge. You don’t need to buy anything new. Shop your bathroom, bedroom, nightstand, kitchen, or wherever you already keep the things you enjoy.

Here are a few fall self-care ideas to get you started.

Personal Care

• Hand cream
• Skincare mask or exfoliator
• Lip care
• Foot cream
• Bath oils, bath salts, or bath and shower gels
• Body lotion, body butter, or body oil

Relaxation

• Essential oils
• Candles
• Diffuser
• Fuzzy socks
• Favorite tea
• Relaxing music or a favorite playlist

Quiet-Time Favorites

• A novelette you’ve been meaning to read
• Devotional or inspirational book
• Journal and favorite pen

Whether you have five minutes or a couple of hours, you deserve a little downtime, too. Take a few moments to refresh your mind, body, and spirit so you can come back to everything else feeling renewed.

And remember, self-care for women over 40 doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive, or time-consuming. Sometimes it simply means making it easier to use what you already have and giving yourself permission to enjoy it.

For even more seasonal self-care ideas, visit my Holiday Hub. I created it as a place for fun, inspiration, and simple ways to enjoy the remainder of the year. Each month, I’ll add ideas to help you enjoy the holidays while remembering to take care of yourself along the way.

Now go create your self-care basket—and enjoy those moments. You’re on the list, too. 💜

About Evelyn

Hi, I’m Evelyn!

For more than 26 years, I’ve been helping women over 40 care for their skin with confidence. Through Purple Essence By Evelyn, I share practical skincare education, healthy wellness habits, and intentional self-care to help women age well with grace, confidence, and purpose.

Whether you’re looking for skincare and wellness tips, product recommendations, or simple ways to prioritize yourself, I’m here to help you build a routine that’s effective, enjoyable, and easy to maintain.

Before You Go…

🎁 I’d love to send you my free Self-Care Routine Guide!

When you subscribe, you’ll also receive weekly skincare tips, simple wellness habits, and gentle encouragement to help you age well with confidence. From time to time, I’ll share special offers and invitations to upcoming events, too.