The Fall Equinox, also known as the Autumnal Equinox, occurs around September 20th or 21st in the Northern Hemisphere and around March 22nd or 23rd in the Southern Hemisphere. The term "equinox" is derived from the Latin words "aequus" (equal) and "nox" (night).
This astronomical annual event marks the point in Earth's orbit around the Sun when the number of hours from sunrise to sunset (daylight) and the number of hours from sunset to sunrise (night) are approximately the same.
Equinoxes, both Autumnal (Fall) and Vernal (Spring) are astronomical events related to the tilt of Earth's axis. During this time, the axis is not tilted toward or away from the Sun, thus allowing for nearly equal amounts of daylight and darkness across the globe. The equinoxes are important markers for defining seasons.
The September equinox signifies the transition from summer to fall in the Northern Hemisphere and the transition from winter to spring in the Southern Hemisphere… for the purpose of this blog, my focus will be on the Fall Equinox for the Northern Hemisphere.
The Fall Equinox has been celebrated by many cultures throughout history, each marking the occasion with unique customs, festivals, and rituals. Often tied to the themes of harvest, balance, and the changing of seasons, these cultural and historical traditions reflect the deep connection between human life and the cycles of nature.
Across cultures, the Fall Equinox is a time of deep reflection on the cycles of life, balance, and gratitude for the abundance of the harvest. Each tradition celebrates these themes in ways that reflect their connection to the Earth and the shifting seasons.
Some common spiritual themes associated with fall include:
Transformation and Letting Go
As leaves change color and fall from trees, the season symbolizes the process of transformation and letting go of things that no longer serve us. As we let go of these things that no longer serve us, we make room for new habits, thoughts and perceptions.
Harvest and Gratitude 💫
Fall is traditionally a time of harvest, when crops are gathered in preparation for winter. This is a great time to reflect on the fruits of your labor (both literally and figuratively) and to express gratitude for the blessings and abundance in your life.
Balance and Reflection ⚖️
The Fall Equinox marks a day of balance between light and dark; a reminder to seek balance in your life… balance between work and rest, giving and receiving, and your inner and outer world. This can be a time of deep self-reflection.
Preparation and Rest 🙏🏼
Just as nature prepares for the dormancy of winter, fall encourages one to turn inward, slow down, and conserve energy for the colder months ahead. The invitation from the season is to explore different self-care practices for the purpose of finding one (more) that you really like.
Shadow Work 🔮
As the daylight within each day becomes less and darkness increases, fall is a season for exploring the hidden or suppressed aspects of the self. It’s an opportunity for spiritual deepening, healing, and confronting fears or unresolved issues.
Connection to Ancestors and the Spirit World 🌀
Fall, especially around Samhain (Halloween), is considered a time when the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds is thin. This makes it an ideal time for connecting with ancestors, spiritual guides, and honoring the dead.
In this sense, the Fall Equinox serves as a spiritual checkpoint—a reminder to celebrate your personal harvest, acknowledge your blessings, and cultivate gratitude as you prepare for the darker, quieter months ahead.
Here are 4 Fall Equinox activities for you to try if you wish:
#1 Gratitude Altar 🙏🏼
How: Create an altar dedicated to the themes of harvest and gratitude. Decorate it with autumnal items like apples, pumpkins, acorns, dried leaves, and candles in shades of gold, orange, and brown. Include symbols of what you’re thankful for, such as photos, objects, or written notes.
Purpose: This altar serves as a physical representation of the abundance in your life and helps you focus on gratitude throughout the season.
#2 Harvest Feast 🌾
How: Prepare a meal using seasonal foods like root vegetables, squash, apples, and grains. If possible, include items you’ve grown or gathered yourself. Invite friends or family to join you in this feast.
Purpose: Sharing a meal is a way to honor the harvest and show gratitude for the Earth’s bounty. You can begin the meal with a moment of reflection or go around the table and ask everyone to share that they are most thankful for.
#3 Nature Walk and Offering 👣
How: Go for a mindful walk in nature, paying attention to the changes around you—the cooling air, the falling leaves, the shifting colors. As part of your walk, leave a small offering, such as birdseed or compostable items (like flowers or herbs), as a thank-you to the Earth.
Purpose: This ritual deepens your connection with nature and helps you align with the changing season while giving thanks to the natural world.
#4 Candle Ritual for Intentions 🕯️
How: Light two candles, one to represent the light (day) and one for the dark (night). As you light the candles, reflect on your personal "harvest" or what you’ve accomplished, and set intentions for what you need to release or prepare for as you enter the darker half of the year.
Purpose: This ritual allows you to honor both the light and dark aspects of your life, helping you transition from a time of action to a time of rest and reflection.
These rituals can be customized to fit your personal practice or spiritual path, and they serve as a way to celebrate the spiritual essence of the Fall Equinox.
Another great ritual we invite you to incorporate into your monthly practice is to join us each month on the second Wednesday Season 11 of Breath Therapy. This season’s Breath Therapy will focus on Your Breath, Your Spine & Your Energy Centres!
You can join Breath Therapy in-person in Prince George, BC or online. Click HERE for more information on this healing and restorative monthly practice!
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