Embrace the Autumn Equinox

The Autumn Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere, this year falling on September 22, marks a moment of perfect balance when the sun’s rays align with Earth, creating equal hours of daylight and darkness. From this point onward, the days will gradually become shorter, the nights longer, and the air cooler. This natural event not only signals the official start of autumn but also invites us to slow down, reflect, and prepare for the coming months of introspection and rest. Throughout history and across various cultures, the equinox has been a time to celebrate abundance, honor the harvest, and recognize the cycles of life and nature. It reminds us that, just as the Earth transitions into a quieter, more reflective state, so too can we. The equinox encourages us to embrace balance—between work and rest, giving and receiving, light and dark, action and stillness. It’s a moment to take stock of where we are, what we have accomplished, and what we need to let go of to make space for new growth.

This week, I invite you to connect deeply with nature during the Autumn Equinox. Use this sacred time to reflect on balance, transition, and gratitude. As the season shifts, let’s align ourselves with nature’s cycles and find harmony within our own lives.

Instructions

Each of these practices can be done in one day or spread out over the week.

Spend time outdoors
Go outside and immerse yourself in the natural world. Whether it’s a walk in the woods, a visit to a park, or sitting quietly in your garden, observe the seasonal changes. Feel the coolness in the air, notice the changing colors of the leaves, and observe how the light shifts in autumn. Reflect on the cycles of nature and how they parallel the changes happening in your own life.

Reflect on balance
Spend some time reflecting on balance in your life. Just as the equinox brings equal light and darkness, think about how balanced your time, energy, and emotions feel. Is there an area in your life that needs more balance? Write down your thoughts and choose one small step you can take to create more harmony in that area.

Letting go
Autumn is a time of release, much like the trees shedding their leaves. Consider what in your life no longer serves you—whether it’s a habit, a thought pattern, or emotional weight. Write it down and symbolically let it go. You could burn the paper in a safe environment or simply tear it up. This act of release makes room for new growth.

Harvest gratitude
As autumn is traditionally the season of harvest, take time to reflect on the “harvest” in your life. What have you accomplished this year? What personal or professional seeds have blossomed? Take a moment to express gratitude for your growth and the lessons you’ve learned. Share a meal made from seasonal ingredients like apples, pumpkins, or root vegetables, and give thanks for the nourishment nature provides.

Autumn Equinox fire gathering
Gather with friends and family in the evening around a small fire or outdoor gathering space. As the fire flickers, share a simple meal made with seasonal ingredients, such as roasted vegetables, apples, or hearty soups. Encourage everyone to take turns sharing something they are grateful for or a lesson they’ve learned over the past year. This practice not only strengthens bonds but also honors the harvest season and the equinox’s theme of balance and reflection. As the evening winds down, sit quietly by the fire, appreciating the warmth and connection, symbolizing the light and warmth we carry into the darker months ahead.

Discover the wonders of Equinoxes on National Geographic

Photo: NASA’s Earth Observatory