Autumn is a gorgeous season to be outdoors — the trees are decked out in their gold-and-russet finery, and there’s still enough sun to ward off the chill. So, tear yourself and your loved ones away from the all-consuming black hole of electronic devices, and pay a fun visit to Mother Nature. Where to go? Here are some ideas to jumpstart your imagination:
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
You like to be where the action is. Chasing storms out in the desert or another flat expanse would get your heart pounding — just make sure you don’t get too close! You could also take a fast-moving train or boat trip to enjoy the fall scenery and feel the elements whizzing by. Fall is a good time to run a marathon, as the weather has cooled down some. It would help you get in shape before all that holiday feasting, too!
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
A long, slow drive to savor the season would be right up your alley. Plan an all-day or weekend getaway, with stops at favorite restaurants or new ones that you’ve researched online. As a destination, a hot springs would be fantastic — you could enjoy a hike in nature, then soak for hours in healing mineral baths. You’d also enjoy visiting a picturesque town with lots of fun boutiques where you could stroll and shop for hours!
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Because your mind is so over-stimulated, autumn is a good time to chill out. An outdoor activity that focuses you completely on a goal — such as rock-climbing or archery — would clear and refresh your mind. Just be sure to leave the cell phone behind! An out-of-town film festival or wine-tasting tour would satisfy your need for variety and help you relax. If you’re in good shape, a back-packing trip will really get you grounded.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Get thyself away from the kitchen, and out into nature where you can drink in the nourishment of the elements. You could drive to the mountains, hike during the day, then bundle up in warm clothes and view the stars at night. Or, plan an outing to visit family who live at a distance, and have them guide you on a walking tour of the area. If possible, plan your trip for the Full Moon, when your energy will be high.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)
Horseback-riding would be an ideal autumnal excursion for you. Imagine yourself galloping through the trees in all their splendor, as the wind whips through your hair. Anything that gets your blood pumping, such as mountain-climbing or skiing (if there’s enough snow), would be good for both your heart and your spirits. If you need some motivation, be sure to reward yourself with a fine-dining experience afterward!
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)
Planting a pre-winter garden, perhaps as a family or community endeavor, would be a lovely autumn activity for you. You could also round everyone up and visit a local farm or harvest fair to enjoy the animals and stock up on goodies like fresh goat cheese and homemade preserves. You might try planning an excursion to a lavender field to gather blossoms for sachets, or going on a hike and gathering white sage to make into fragrant bundles.
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
A romantic stroll down a wind-swept beach at sunset with a loved one would be your perfect autumn excursion. Or, take a trek around a beautiful lake and watch the ducks at play. A shopping expedition to a part of town that features clothing and home accessories from another country (such as Korea, Africa or India) would also be a fun outing when done in tandem. Treat yourselves to an exotic meal while you’re there.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)
Getting away from time to time is essential for you. An excursion to the deep, dark woods would restore your soul this autumn. Go alone or with someone special, and commune in silence with the trees. Because your element is “fixed water,” which translates to ice, why not visit an ice-skating rink for an extra-special adventure? The simple, down-home pleasure of a rodeo or outdoor concert should also please you.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)
You love exploring unknown territory, even in your own backyard. This autumn, get out a guidebook to your city or a neighboring one, and plan outings to places you’ve never been before. Visit an observatory to see the constellations, an art museum to enjoy the latest exhibition, or go whale watching on a cruise ship. You could also go on a guided Sierra Club hike to learn about your local flora and fauna.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)
You love the past, so plan an excursion this autumn to an antique mall or open-air flea market to forage for treasures. Touring a local historical landmark or natural history museum would also satisfy the part of you that appreciates antiquity. You enjoy desert landscapes — the vast expanses soothe your soul — so why not plan a desert trek? Even better if you can add a trip to a local hot springs to soothe your weary bones.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)
Autumn is a wonderful time to participate in team sports, from football to Frisbee. Even getting out to the park for a game of croquet or swinging in a swing can make you feel like a kid again. Because you’re interested in what’s new and progressive, you could also participate in a tour of “green” homes in your area, or learn how to landscape with edible plants by taking a weekend workshop on permaculture.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)
Visiting a marine park would be the perfect autumn outing for your watery soul, as would whale watching or sailing. If you’re seeking something tranquil, spend a day at the spa getting pampered, then go out for a delicious fish dinner. If a high-flying adventure sounds more appealing, hot-air ballooning or hang gliding might do the trick. Going to an outdoor concert where you can dance your heart out would also be fun!
