The changing of the seasons is a magical time to celebrate nature and the cycle of the year. We may have already begun to feel the effects of fall in some places, but the official autumnal equinox is on September 22.
Even if you don’t live in a place where the leaves change color, fall is many people’s favorite season-it’s time to indulge in everything pumpkin spice flavored and get excited for the holiday season. In many ancient cultures and religions, the autumnal equinox was an important holiday of its own. The day was revered as a passage from one season to another, for the day sacrificing itself to the night as darkness began to fall earlier. In astrology, it’s known as a time for finding balance and preparing for the end of the year.
Want to have a little personal equinox celebration of your own? Here’s how to do it:
- Eat!
Many equinox celebrations centered around the harvest theme, so cook up a storm! You could even treat it as a mini-Thanksgiving and invite friends and family over. Make sure to include pumpkin pie for dessert, preferably with a giant scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!
- Spend time in nature.
It’s important for us to really feel the change of seasons and adjust to our new circumstances. Get outside, preferably barefoot, and spend a little time absorbing the fresh energy that the fall equinox brings. You’ll feel refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to conquer the final months of 2016!
- Set an intention.
Just like the new moon, the autumnal equinox is a perfect time to set an intention for the upcoming months. You’ll be feeling balanced and clear headed, so you’ll be able to really dig deep and reflect on the changes that you truly desire in your life. Be honest with yourself, and don’t hold back-it’s time to end 2016 on your own terms.
- Meditate.
Create a peaceful space for yourself in your home, and set aside some alone time. Meditation can be an extremely powerful tool on the solstice, and spending this important time with your thoughts will help you go into the new season with a positive, balanced mindset. Focus on just breathing and just being-it’s a time to clear out any worries and anxiety, and hold space for your hopes and dreams for the fall. If you don’t have a consistent meditation practice, now might be a great time to start!
- Read!
This equinox has historically been a very important day of the year. There is much literature and art surrounding this time of year-why not do a little research and learn more about what this date has meant to different religions and cultures throughout the centuries? Learn the history of Halloween, open your mind to pagan traditions, and find out exactly why this date has been celebrated as a holiday. This is an opportunity to learn about countries, cultures, and religions outside of your own-who knows, maybe you’ll get inspired with new ways to celebrate!
Zaynah
September 19, 2016 at 9:18 AM
thank you xx