As the days grow shorter and the crisp air begins to carry a hint of nostalgia, nature’s rhythm begins to shift towards a new phase: the autumn equinox. This celestial event marks the point when day and night are nearly equal in duration, ushering in the official start of fall. Beyond being a marker of the changing seasons, the autumn equinox holds a special energy that can be harnessed for healing and renewal.

The word “Equinox” comes from the Latin meaning “equal night”. Typically the autumn equinox falls between September 20-23 in the Northern hemisphere and March 20-23 in the Southern hemisphere.This time of the year is about balance. No matter where you might be in the world, when we arrive at an equinox it’s all about balance and harmony as we are receiving equal amounts of sun and moon energy. 

Here are four ways you can honor and celebrate the Autumn Equinox.

Create an Autumn Equinox Altar.

This is a beautiful time to honor the season and create an autumn equinox altar. When creating an altar, you’ll want to be intentional. I enjoy finding things in nature that offer the energy of this season. You may find harvest colors such as orange, rust, gold, reds, and browns speak to you. 

Here are a few other ideas to spark your altar creation:

  • Candles or pictures that remind you of fall
  • Statues of gods or goddesses that are connected to this season 
  • Symbols of the harvest season
  • Items connected to you in which you feel an immense amount of gratitude

Hold an Autumn Equinox Gratitude Ritual.

This is a beautiful time to give thanks to the abundance of Mother Earth and the good things that have happened in our lives throughout the year. I always love doing this practice while outside playing music in the background. The main thing you want to focus on is writing down everything you are grateful for – let the words flow and honor everything that comes to you. Once you have finished, you’ll want to read your list out loud so the Universe can hear it and then place it on your altar.

Create an Autumn Equinox Feast.

This time of year is a wonderful time to celebrate by gathering friends and family around food. Make a ritual out of this experience inviting others to bring dishes using the best ingredients of the season. Cooking and baking can be very meditivative and supportive to our heart and soul.  A few of my favorite foods to cook with during this time of the year are sweet potatoes, apples, brussel sprouts, cranberries, and beets. One of my favorite fall recipes to make is this beautiful side dish.

Meditation and Self-Reflection

The balance of light and darkness during the equinox encourages us to explore the depths of our own psyche. Meditation and self-reflection can help us uncover hidden aspects of ourselves, allowing us to heal wounds, gain insight, and cultivate self-awareness. The stillness of the equinox provides an ideal backdrop for such inner journeys. Set aside time for meditation or journaling to explore your emotions, thoughts, and desires. Consider using this time to set intentions for your personal healing. Enjoy this 20-minute guided Autumn Equinox meditation to support you on this season. 

Keep In Mind.

The autumn equinox serves as a potent reminder of the interconnectedness of nature, life, and personal growth. By embracing the lessons it offers – letting go, finding balance, expressing gratitude, and connecting with nature – you can tap into its transformative energy to support your healing journey. As the leaves fall and the days grow shorter, let the energy of the equinox guide you towards a deeper understanding of yourself and a renewed sense of well-being.

The mission of Jenny Shanks, LLC is to inspire and support the human spirit through connection and education. We will share light, love, and hope to all we encounter in the human world and in the spirit world.