Honor The Autumnal Equinox

With each reddened leaf, slightly shorter day, and fractional drop in temperature it’s clear: we’re standing on the cusp of a new season.

The autumnal equinox for the northern hemisphere begins this Monday, September 22nd, with the first day of autumn falling (no pun intended) on the 23rd. The equinox happens twice a year — in March and September — and is marked by day and night being equal (or close to it) in length, a phenomenon caused by the sun shining directly on the equator.

Any change of season is an opportunity for celebration, but the autumnal equinox is an especially fruitful time for reflection and growth.

Autumn Equinox

Because day and night are equal in length, the equinox is the perfect time to seek balance in your life. Begin the day itself by waking up just before sunrise to watch the light break over the trees. Meditate or do a few morning yoga poses, and set your intentions for the season ahead – because fall is a season of abundance, this is also the perfect time to give thanks for what you have. Create a list of the things — large and small — that you’re grateful for and the people you’re thankful to have surrounding you. Keep the list ready and available so you’re able to add to it throughout the season.

Autumn Equinox

Fall is such a gorgeous time of year, but it can also be one of the busiest for many of us. Around the equinox, be sure to set aside some time to observe and appreciate the earth’s transformation. It many be an elusive concept, but strive to find balance in the areas of your life that you feel are at odds with each other. Maybe you’re working too much, or not communicating enough with friends and family – whatever is causing you worry, this is the perfect time to welcome harmony into your life.

Autumn Equinox

While many crops are now grown further into fall, the autumnal equinox traditionally marked the winding down of the harvest. Begin this new season by incorporating autumn’s warming foods, like squash and apples, into your cooking repertoire. Cooking with what’s in season will make you feel more connected with the earth, and it’s a great way to expand your menu.

Autumn Equinox

The air is finally cooling down, making autumn the perfect season to get outdoors and appreciate nature. Make the time to get outside, whether it’s for a short walk through your neighborhood or a hike through the woods. Turn off your phone, gather a few close friends, and meander through the forest, gathering bright leaves and other natural tokens as you go. If you’re hiking a mountain, take some time at the peak to admire the view, maybe write a few words in a journal, and breathe in the beauty of this amazing season.

Autumn Equinox

Just as you observed the rise of the sun, try to find a spot to watch the sunset and observe the end of summer and the beginning of fall. If you’ve set goals for the season ahead (maybe waking up earlier?), there’s no better time to start then now.

How will you be observing the equinox? Be sure to share your idea in the comments!

More inspiration posts from the BLDG 25 Blog.

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9 years ago

Unfortunately I live in Hawaii and fall doesn’t even exist! I will like vicariously through these images and buy yummy fall scented candles <3

http://nikkicrown.com

9 years ago

Ahhh, absolutely love this. Very excited for autumn!

http://juliettelaura.blogspot.com/

9 years ago

I feel so much growth and transformation happening for me spiritually, emotionally, and in my relationship right now. I love the thought of celebrating the equinox, I’ll be at my yoga class that day, but will spend time outside in the fall air this weekend too.

Warm Regards,
Alexandra
http://www.littlewildheart.com

Sophie
9 years ago

The equinox is actually on the 23rd this year, but great post otherwise!

9 years ago

i can’t believe its almost autumn!!!….we’ve been having such a sweltering heat wave in So Cal, it feels like the summer will never end… but in October it never seems to fail, one day its hot and the next one the chill of fall creeps in…. thank you for the reminder to celebrate the turning of the seasons; i love the idea of celebrating the natural cycles of life…a practice that has gone on for centuries….

The Weaver Of Words…..give me 15 words and I’ll tell you a tale
http://www.averyfairytale.wordpress.com

9 years ago

There is something so wonderful and anticipatory about that just-before-fall window.
Love these pictures!

Claire
http://www.augustlikethemonth.blogspot.com

9 years ago

I love the way fall photography, and these images are no exception.

http://www.sunshinedaydreamphotography.com

9 years ago

Fall teeters right on the edge of the bounty of summer and the solitude of winter; it’s so lovely. I only wish that I could find a place with a longer fall.

oneweirdmoon.blogspot.com

Lilly
9 years ago

Such a Beautiful Post, Thank You. <3

Mary Jo
9 years ago

As a nature lover, I am at my happiest when watching Mother Nature in action. That said, it’s a sad time for me to say good bye to a fantastic summer on Long Island. To make me feel better, I always keep the most summery free people dress in my closet so I can always remember that warm, sunny days are just around the corner. Fortunately, I will be spending time at the beach this weekend for as long as the sun allows.

kate
9 years ago

remind mi this http://vimeo.com/105924541

kate
9 years ago

just like that http://vimeo.com/105924541

9 years ago

I needed this reminder, the smallest form of magic is the believe that anything is possible. <3

9 years ago

What a wonderful description of the autumn season. It is a refreshing break for everyone!!! Thank you for sharing this message!!. MaryAnn

5 years ago

Such a beautiful description of the weather season. it’s a refreshing break for everyone!!! thanks for sharing this article!!.