Supporting Yourself by Supporting Local: Preparing for the Fall & Winter Seasons

As we shift into shorter days, cooler weather, and earlier sunsets, many of us feel the seasonal changes not only in the air but in our energy and mood. For some, this can even bring on the “winter blues” or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Whether you experience a noticeable dip in motivation or just crave more comfort this time of year, simple self-care rituals can make a big difference. One of the best ways to prepare for the fall and winter months is by supporting yourself with nourishing habits, while also supporting the local businesses that keep our Boone, NC community thriving.

This season, we’re highlighting a few of our favorite Boone and North Carolina–based businesses that can help you stay grounded, balanced, and well as we move into the colder months.

Surround Yourself with Greenery

Indoor plants are one of the best ways to lift your spirits during the darker months. Studies show they can improve mood, purify the air, and even boost productivity. That’s why we work with Plant Bustique, a Boone business that supplies and cares for all of our in-house plants. Bringing greenery into your home or workspace is a natural way to brighten the season and create a soothing environment.

Stay Hydrated and Energized

Shorter days and colder weather can leave you feeling sluggish. Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to maintain energy and support overall wellness. We carry Simple Water, a locally made beverage brand we love sharing with our guests. Sipping on clean, refreshing water throughout the day is a small ritual that helps keep your body balanced when sunlight is scarce.

Add a Sweet Ritual

When the winter blues hit, give yourself permission to savor something special. We carry Spring & Mulberry Chocolate, a North Carolina–based brand creating decadent, fruit-sweetened chocolate with unique flavors. A square or two can become a grounding ritual, a way to pause, find joy, and reconnect to the present moment in the middle of a busy day.

Snack to Stay Balanced

Seasonal dips in energy often go hand-in-hand with blood sugar fluctuations. Having a nourishing snack nearby can make all the difference. Raw Crunch, another NC-based business, makes nutrient-packed, crunchy bars that keep your energy steady without the crash. They’re one of our favorite grab-and-go self-care tools for the colder months.

Warm Up with a Cup

Few things feel as comforting on a cold Boone morning as wrapping your hands around a hot mug. For us, that mug often comes from Birdie’s Coffee, a beloved local mobile coffee shop. Supporting a local café is more than just a pick-me-up, it’s a way to slow down, connect with your community, and create a cozy daily ritual that supports your mental well-being.

Recharge Your Body and Mind

Sometimes self-care goes beyond what you eat or drink, it’s about giving your body the deeper rest and renewal it craves. At The Care Collective, our wellness offerings like massage, infrared and traditional sauna, and footsoaks are designed to help you reset, restore balance, and ease the tension that often builds during the colder months. Investing in your well-being with bodywork or heat therapy is a powerful way to stay grounded and resilient through fall and winter.

Remember that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as surrounding yourself with greenery, staying hydrated, nourishing your body, and finding joy in small rituals. By choosing local businesses, you’re not only preparing your body and mind for winter, you’re strengthening the fabric of our Boone community.