Embrace the Fall: Choosing Joy Amidst the Changing Seasons Akron Area Fall Activities
For some, fall is a time of joy. The spooky season sparks excitement, while cozy sweaters provide comfort. Yet for others, it can bring a sense of dread as winter looms. Days grow shorter, and signs of the impending cold are everywhere.
Arthur Brooks, a professor and happiness researcher, emphasizes that happiness isn’t a destination but a direction. When we move toward happiness, we cultivate more joyful feelings. For me, this means making daily choices that enhance my enjoyment, satisfaction, and sense of purpose.
To align with this mindset, I need to be intentional about how I spend my time—not just my free time, which often gets swallowed by weekend sports and to-do lists, but also my scheduled commitments. For instance, instead of grumbling about spending Sunday at a cross-country meet, I can seek ways to find joy and connection while I'm there.
When considering how to spend my time, I ask myself: What brings me joy? How can I deepen my connections with others? What will give me a sense of accomplishment when it’s done?
In Akron, fall offers countless opportunities to engage in the season. These are some of my favorites.
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens: This historic site provides context and a reminder of the broader community we live in. You can stroll the grounds on your own or schedule a Nooks and Crannies tour to hear about the juicy details from an enthusiastic guide.
Parks: Both Summit Metro Parks and Cuyahoga National Parks offer ample chances for enjoyment. Research shows that being near water can uplift our spirits, so seek out trails with scenic views or riverside walks. It’s even better if you bring a friend!
Vibrant Neighborhoods: Explore the bustling areas of Hudson and Cuyahoga Falls, which feature charming walking paths. People-watching, coffee shops, and good food abound at both First and Main and Downtown Cuyahoga Falls.
Morning and Evening Walks: Embrace the beauty of sunrise or sunset with a stroll around your neighborhood. Exposure to sunlight triggers the production of serotonin, which helps regulate your mood. You’ll feel a positive shift if you start and end your day with sunlight—even if it’s hiding behind the clouds.
Fall Festivals and Pumpkin Farms: Enjoy the seasonal festivities and activities they bring. There’s no shortage of pumpkin farms in the area. Szalay’s is a family favorite because of its simplicity. A stroll around the market, a tasty snack, and a quick corn maze can be a fun activity—even if you have to squeeze it in between other obligations.
Garden Time: Fall cleanup can provide a sense of accomplishment. Cleaning out last season’s growth while preparing for next year’s bounty allows us to look forward to what is to come. As much as Ohio’s fall leaves feel like a never-ending chore, there’s a satisfying feeling that comes with tidying up—until the wind blows and the next round falls!
Engaging in these activities with people you feel connected to can bring you closer to happiness, especially when you use that time to strengthen those bonds. Making intentional choices about how to spend your time and what you can gain from it can set you on the path (not the destination) to happiness.
