Walking Into Autumn
Walking Into Autumn: Fresh Air, Fresh Starts Around Stroud
As August comes to a close, I look forward to my favourite month September. It always feels like a reset to me. The air turns crisp, the kids go back to school, and routines begin to settle again. I find this time of year more motivating than January, it’s softer, fresher, and carries that quiet sense of new beginnings. This year Autumn is in the air earlier than ever.
As many of you know, I’m continuing my foot health training alongside building Balance & Bloom foot care. Part of that journey is learning how to stay balanced myself so that I can best support you. For me, autumn walks around Stonehouse & Stroud are a big part of that balance keeping my body moving, clearing my mind, and finding calm in the rhythm of the seasons.
One of my favourite ways to lean into the season is with a mindful local walk. A 30–40 minute stroll near a long the stared water canal, its so beautiful and the dragon flys are my favourite insects to spot.
If you would like to experieance some of this for yourself, try turning the school run into a seasonal ritual or a Sunday treat, slip on supportive footwear, drop off the kids, or take them with you, grab something warm, and wander through golden woodland. or stroll along the canal path.
I know its challenging and you have 101 things to do, but honestly you will thank me, just once a week will make you feel so much better…………Even a short walk helps reset your system supporting digestion, boosting immunity, strengthen your foot muscles and clear the mental fog with every step.
Stroud’s Autumn Walking Gems
Woodchester Park
A beautiful wooded valley with a hidden lake and winding trails. In autumn, the reflections of golden trees in the water make it one of the most calming spots to walk and pause. - beautiful trees & lakes and great for the children with it kids trailStroudwater Canal Path
Flat, easy walking or jog with plenty to see along the way—colourful narrowboats, bridges, and wildlife. Perfect if you want a gentler pace, a buggy-friendly route, or just a mindful stroll after the school run.
A lovely 10-mile loop tracing the Five Valleys—Frome, Nailsworth, Ruscombe, Painswick, Slad—rich in history and changing light.Coaley Peak
Open meadows with sweeping views across the Severn Vale—perfect for pausing with a warm drink.Rodborough Common & Swift’s Hill
Expansive plateaus, wild grasses, woodland trails—your peaceful autumn sanctuary. The Guardian
Footwear & Comfort Essentials
For NHS approved arch support, FHP & Podiatrist-recommended insoles add real comfort on varied trails FootActive.
Add a Sunday night magnesium rich foot soak, to help tired feet and legs
Sip & Walk: Thoughtful Autumn Rituals
Pair your walk with a warm mushroom coffee or herbal infusion for a gentle seasonal boost. Locally, you can pick up a delicious Lion’s Mane coffee blend from Slad Valley Mushrooms, partnering with Cotswold roasters to blend artisan beans with brain-boosting Lion’s Mane. stio.comSlad Valley Mushrooms
Or just you fave homemade beverage to save pennies
Don’t forget to stretch after………..
Why Autumn Walks Matter
Even a short walk helps reset your system supporting digestion, boosting immunity, and clearing the mental fog with every breath of crisp air. A friend or faithful dog can make it even sweeter.
Autumn isn’t about grand gestures it’s about grounding, presence, and small cornerstones of peace. So this September in Stroud, may your steps root you in the season’s gentle wisdom.
