Embracing the Arrival of Autumn
September 23, 2022 | Seasonal Shifts: Autumn Equinox
Today marks the autumn equinox in the Northern Hemisphere, a momentary balance as day and night reach equal lengths. This transition from lighter to darker days signifies the beginning of autumn, a period ripe with opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and preparation.
Autumn brings a sense of maturity to the landscape. The vibrant, exuberant colors of summer have given way to subdued earthy shades. The dew-laden mornings and mist-filled air create a magical, introspective feel as the seasons change.
Amongst the sun-tinged grass and the emergence of crisp auburn leaves are pockets of gold scattered across the ground, a testament to the bounty of autumn. Berries hang heavy like jewels, and nuts brim with abundance, heralding the richness of the season.
Embracing the Season
To celebrate this transitional phase, I light a candle each morning at breakfast and in the evening over dinner. As the days grow shorter and the light increasingly fades, I mark this change by adorning the house in fairy lights, reintroducing much-needed radiance. I also collect acorns and dried foraged foliage to decorate the house, honoring the abundance of autumn.
Taking inspiration from the seasonal shift is Elaine Bateman, who pays homage to the changing colors of autumn through her poem, "AUTUMN."
In nature, the acorn—scattered across forest floors and transformed into an imposing oak tree—stands as a symbol of potential amidst small beginnings. On a misty autumn morning, a perfectly formed acorn caught my eye, cradled in the intricate details of its delicate cup. This miniature treasure became a part of my woodland-inspired jewelry collection, symbolizing the connection between changing seasons and personal growth.
References:
- K, B., & J, M. (2020). Fall equinox, Mabon, and how to celebrate. Modern Minoan Paganism, www.themodernminoan.com/fall-equinox-mabon-celebrations/
- S, D., & G, L. (2020). Meanings & celebrations of Autumn Equinox. Circle Sanctuary, www.circlesanctuary.org/forms-of-practice-religion/autumn-equinox/
- N, W. (n.d.). Autumn Equinox. Earth Pathway, www.earthpathways.com/autumn-equinox/
- Q, Z. (n.d.). Fall Equinox. SageWoman, www.sagewoman.com/wiccan_wheel_of_the_year_fall_equinox.php#:~:text=Fall%20Equinox%20or%20Mabon%20is,teaches%20a%20harvest%2Dbased%20belief.
Stay Inspired:Sign up for our newsletter here for regular updates on crafts, fashion, home, kids, paper, places, self-care, services, and more.
Categories:slow & simple, home & cosy, nature & seasons, travel & explore, small business
Directory:crafts, edibles, experiences, fashion, home, kids, paper, places, self-care, services
In the spirit of celebration during this autumnal transition, I have started incorporating candles into my morning and evening routines, illuminating the house and signifying the shortening days. Furthermore, I embrace the seasonal charm by decorating my home with fairy lights and acorns, paying homage to the abundant home-and-garden wonders of autumn. Simultaneously, small businesses are tapping into this seasonal inspiration, creating intimate lifestyle collections that echo the earthy tones and simple living values associated with slow living.
