the Magic of the Fall Equinox: A Time for Letting Go and Finding Balance
As summer fades and the days shorten, Nature begins its retreat into fall. Yet, while the world outside slows down, our lives seem to speed up. Sound familiar? This tension between opposing forces can leave us feeling off balance, anxious, and overwhelmed.
But here’s the thing: most of us continue to ignore Nature’s call to slow down, believing it doesn’t fit with our busy routines. I’m here to tell you that it’s not only possible, but it can be easier than you think. You don’t need to carve out extra time for this; it’s more about awareness. The kind of awareness we often miss when we dive straight into our phones as soon as we wake up.
By tuning into the changing seasons and connecting with the natural world, we can ground ourselves in something bigger. I call it Mother Nature, but it goes by many names. Simply noticing the shifting colors of the leaves, feeling the cool breeze, or watching how the wind makes the trees dance can remind us where we are in the cycle of life. These small acts of observation can bring comfort, especially when life is picking up pace—like the start of the school year or other seasonal transitions.
One way to stay connected to Nature’s rhythm is by following the eight ancient celebrations of the year, an alternative to the modern calendar. These celebrations were created by earth-based cultures who lived in harmony with the land. By aligning with these natural cycles, we can calm our nervous systems and live in greater balance.
The next celebration is the Fall Equinox, also known as Mabon. Mabon is the time when the light begins to wane, signaling the approach of winter. This equinox, happening on September 22, 2024, is a moment of balance, where day and night are of equal length. It’s an ideal time to reflect on balance in our own lives. While the Spring Equinox focuses on growth and new beginnings, the Fall Equinox encourages us to consider what we need to let go of.
During this time, Nature gives us a powerful lesson: the trees shed their leaves, preparing for a season of rest. These leaves may be dead, but they serve an important role—nourishing the soil for future growth. This metaphor beautifully reminds us that letting go isn’t an end but part of the cycle that leads to renewal.
So, how can you embrace the Fall Equinox and calm your nervous system as we transition into the darker months? Here are a few simple ways:
1. Bring Nature Indoors
Go for a walk and collect items that remind you of fall—leaves, acorns, or pinecones. Place them around your home as a reminder to slow down and sync with the season.
2. Read ‘Wintering’ by Katherine May
This book is a gentle guide for navigating times of personal transition and retreat, perfect for this season.
3. Dim the Lights at Sunset
As the sun sets earlier, reduce artificial lighting to help your body adjust to the changing light and support your circadian rhythm.
4. Try a Letting-Go Ritual
Collect dry leaves, and on each leaf, write down something you’re ready to release. Take them outside, crush them in your hands, and let the wind carry them away. Feel the sense of space and renewal as you let go.
As we approach the Fall Equinox, I hope these practices help you find balance and calm. Stay tuned—there’s much more to explore as we journey through the year together!
Photo: Camila Carbone
