Creating a Sustainable Bedroom Sanctuary for Longer Nights

As we move more deeply into Autumn, the natural tendency is to get cozy. The days get shorter and cooler, and the nights get longer. Intuitively, we begin layering clothing for warmth and comfort. Fall also inspires seasonal changes around the house to support relaxation, which can ultimately bolster our immune system, nervous system, mood, and overall well-being.

We may not be experts on interior design or the science of immune boosting, but bringing more comfort into people's lives is our jam, especially where it intersects with sleep, rest, and relaxation.

With that goal in mind, we've crafted this simple guide to help you create a sustainable bedroom sanctuary for longer nights. It touches on simple self-care rituals and seasonal layers for your bedroom that can cue your mind and body to relax into this cooler, darker, slower time of year through all the senses.

How to Make Your Bedroom Cozy for Fall

Bedding

Nothing says summer like crisp, white bedding, so an easy starting point for a fall bedroom revamp is to swap out white and light bedding for richer, moodier colors. YALA Bamboo Twill Bedding in Juniper and Luxe Sateen Bedding in Fog are sustainable options that don't contain harmful PFAs, chemical finishes, or chemical dyes.

Extra layers of blankets will also entice you to snuggle up. Unfortunately, most of them are made out of synthetic fabrics that feel amazing to the touch but lack the breathability of natural fibers, causing overheating. If you want a sustainably made alternative, our Luxury Bamboo Silk-Filled Comforter is a superior option, paired with a dark duvet. 

Take advantage of longer nights by getting extra sleep. Splurge for silk pillowcases to soothe your face while you sleep, paired with a Charmeuse Silk Eye Pillow to block out the street lights or your partner's screen glare.

Lighting

We love a fireplace, but low ambient lighting from extra lamps, sconces, or pierced swags with warm bulbs can create a similar feel. Using dimmer switches or three-way lamps helps you achieve that subdued, 'just enough' lighting. Try amber bulbs for a luxurious vibe that creates a fireplace-like glow.

Scent

After installing your comfy bed and calming lighting, invite your nose to the party by adding some natural scents. Scented soy candles, incense, or essential oils in a diffuser are easy options. Unscented beeswax candles exude a subtle, sweet scent on their own. Spicy, rich, citrus, and woodsy notes like cinnamon, clove, orange, leather, and cedar will all elevate your fall sanctuary.

Soak

Fall is the time of year to indulge in long salt baths to reduce aches and soothe your skin. If you don't have a bath, you can love up your skin with a pre-shower dry brush to remove dead skin and increase circulation. Whichever water ritual you choose, keep an Elliot Robe in the bathroom to transition into the rest of your evening.

Lounge

Cue wind-down time in comfy, full-coverage Loungewear. Organic cotton and bamboo blend Hoodies and Joggers can do the heavy lifting when the cold sets in while still breathable, thanks to their natural fiber content. SuperFine Merino Wool Comfort Layers add extra insulation with wool humanely raised and harvested on small organic farms in New Zealand and third-party certified by Responsible Wool Standard.

Reflect

Sanctuaries are places that support and inspire stillness, presence, healing, and integration after the hustle and bustle of the day. Reflecting on your day and naming a few specific things you are grateful for is a powerful way to quiet the mind towards rest and wrap up the day on a positive note. Jot some appreciations down in a journal or speak them out loud. Remember to include yourself!

Sleep

Settle into bed with an indulgently soft, full-coverage bamboo pajama set or nightgown like the Norah Pajama, Hailey Gown, or choose from our entire selection of YALA's sustainably made Bamboo Sleepwear tailored to your preferences. Men love to sleep in the Hayden Pants and Nathan or Jonah Shirts.

Repeat
It takes some time and resources to transition your bedroom from a cool summer retreat to a calming fall sanctuary, but once you make the initial investment, you can enjoy it all season long and into the Winter. Allow the process to unfold bit by bit as you source elements that feel special and comforting to you. Fall is the doorway to deep Winter hibernation mode; we're in no rush.

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