The October Issue 2020
October has arrived and with it a distinctly autumnal feel - falling leaves, cooler darker days and a sense of winter approaching. Whilst we are relishing in the chance to get the knitwear out and cosy up at home, there is also so much to do and see this month. Read on for our guide on what to do, see, eat and where this October..
Black History Month
October marks Black History Month - the annual celebration of the history, contributions and achievements of black people in the UK. Numerous events celebrating African and Caribbean cultures will be taking place across the country, with many being digitalised due to 2020 being the way that it is. Events this year include an exhibition celebrating female black professors at the Southbank Centre and the Ake Festival, the world’s biggest event for creative voices from Africa and the African Diaspora.
Forest Bathing
Many of us turned to nature to get us through lockdown and we are trying to keep up the good habit having felt the positive effects of spending time in the woods. With the fabulous display of colours on show as the leaves change, October is a great time to enjoy our forests. The Japanese practice of 'shirin yoku' or forest bathing is a form of therapy encouraging spending time moving slowly amongst trees for a soothing sensory experience. The peace, the gentle forest sounds and that connection with nature can make a massive difference to our mood and sense of well-being. Find your nearest wood via The Woodland Trust.
Pumpkin Picking
As soon as we reach October pumpkins start popping up all over our instagram feeds - there is something nostalgic, fun and of course a little bit magical about this beautiful vegetable! From vast classic orange ones perfect for carving at Halloween, to little decorative white ones, they are the perfect autumn decoration. This year we will be picking our own - it makes for a great, socially distanced and covid-safe activitiy that the kiddies will love. A couple of our favourite spots locally are Launde Pumpkins in Leicestershire and Overstone Grange Farm in Northamptonshire - definitely worth a look.
On Our Screens
The darker evenings do have us craving cosy evenings in at home. We are looking to catching up on some TV. A couple of our favourites right now - the brilliant Alexander McQueen documentary which is available on the BBC iPlayer for a look at the life of one of the country's most talented fashion designers. Also The Social Dilemma on netflix for an unsettling but thought provoking documentary on the terrifying power that social media has over us as individuals.
The Floral Project
Whilst it is still not too cold we are keen to get out in the garden. We are slowly trying to learn a bit more about what to plant when and absolutley love the idea of The Floral Project which gives you ideas on which seeds to go for in order to have beautiful cut flowers to enjoy and to give to friends throughout the summer. You can buy a box each month with different seeds in and instructions of what to do with them. Great for anyone who get's a little lost like us!
What to Eat...
Just in time for the long evenings, the Great British Bake Off is back and has us inspired to get into the kitchen! It definitely feels like a time for comfort food and sweet treats. Seasonal fruits are still going strong - figs are top of our list right now both in salads and in moreish cakes. We are also excited to be back making stews packed with warming veggies and goodness. Nothing better on a cold day!
What to Wear
Maybe it's the approach of halloween, or just the darker days but we are looking to darker moodier colours with a touch of drama this month. Skall Studio's flowing dresses with little lace details are perfect paired with some cosy knits and some spellbinding jewellery finish the whole look of nicely!
