You might have heard the world “equinox” floating around lately, as the days get cooler and shorter, people unpack their flannels, and coffee shops everywhere get ready to serve Pumpkin Spice Lattes to the masses. But what does the word equinox even mean?
Equinox comes from the Latin words aequus, meaning “equal” or “even,” and nox, meaning “night”. This describes the astronomical event that happens on the day of the equinox: the sun aligns with the Earth’s equator in a way that makes the hours of day and night equal. There are two equinoxes per year; the vernal equinox marks the start of spring, and the autumnal equinox marks the start of fall.
Don’t let me fool you – The equinox goes way beyond equators and pumpkin spice lattes. So let’s dive in to learn more about this powerful astrological event. In this post, we’ll talk about the historical meaning of the Equinox, discuss its spiritual messages, and the rituals you can observe to find balance and growth this fall.
Celebrating Balance: Historical Observances of the Equinox
Throughout the ages, cultures everywhere have made a pretty big deal about the equinox. And honestly? They had good reason to! Let’s take a quick world tour.
In the ancient city of Chitchen Itza, Mexico, the Mayans built the El Castillo pyramid with such precision that sunlight casts a shadow resembling a snake descending its steps during both spring and fall equinoxes.
Japan, on the other hand, has a long-standing tradition called Ohigan, celebrated around the equinox. It’s a time when, according to the Buddhists, the boundaries between our world and the spirit world are especially thin. So, families gather, sharing memories and offerings, to pay their respects to those who have passed on.
Meanwhile, in Pagan and Wiccan traditions, the autumn equinox brings about Mabon. It’s a heartfelt celebration where folks really lean into gratitude, a nod to the constant balance between light and dark.
Note: What we’ve touched on here is just the tip of the iceberg. There are countless stories of societies honoring the equinox and the balance it promises. We couldn’t possibly squeeze them all in here, but trust us, there is a treasure trove of stories out there for curious souls like you. Check out this article, if you’re interested in delving a little deeper.
Equinox Wisdom: Spiritual Messages
So, you’ve probably gathered that the fall equinox isn’t just about pumpkin patches and sweater weather. It’s a spiritually rich moment, brimming with ancient wisdom. Ready to decipher the universe’s messages? Let’s lean in and listen closely.
Balance: Just as day and night find equilibrium during the equinox, the universe is dropping us a hint: “Hey, how about a bit of balance in your life?” From the hustle at work to the rhythm at home, finding that sweet spot of balance is crucial. Whether it’s in how we treat ourselves or others, aiming for even footing ensures we flow just right with the world. The equinox is just the universe’s way of nudging us to take a moment and see if we’re leaning a tad too much one way.
Light and dark: With the day and night being equal during the equinox, we can recognize that light and dark are both necessary parts of life. While light is all about those feel-good, joyful moments, the shadows bring challenges, sometimes pain. While it might be tempting to skip the shadowy bits, the equinox reminds us to embrace them. After all, they’re essential chapters in our story. They’re what allow us to learn and grow.
Gratitude: Traditionally, the autumn equinox was celebrated just after the harvest season. Imagine communities coming together, diving into feasts, soaking up the summer’s generosity, and raising a toast to the food that’ll tide them over during the cold months. It was all about gratitude then, and guess what? It still is. So, whether you choose to celebrate the equinox or not this year, make sure you take a moment for gratitude for the blessings in your life, big and small. It’s a powerful practice that, especially when practiced consistently, can train your brain to see the world through a more joyful lens.
Equinox Rituals
Rituals can help you connect more deeply with the energy of the equinox and allow you to fully experience the blessings that this time brings. Here are some ways that you can celebrate the fall equinox this year.
Practice Yoga: Take the element of balance as literally as possible with some equinox yoga! Of course, you can practice balancing on one leg (or maybe on your hands for the expert yogis out there), but balance infuses every aspect of yoga, as it brings peace and harmony to your mind, body, and soul. Try practicing yoga on the day of equinox and the days surrounding it. Maybe invite some friends to join you in an equinox practice. Use your sessions to relax, release, and recharge.
Host an Equinox Potluck: Gather your friends and have a big end-of-summer celebration! Pick any theme you want, of course, but to really get in the equinox spirit, you can try dishes like Pumpkin Chili, Roasted Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts, Kale Fennel and Roasted Delicata Salad, or Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins! Add some Mulled Wine, and you’re set for a true equinox feast.
Have a Bonfire: With the bonfire, we acknowledge the cold that is coming, and give gratitude for the fires that kept generations before us alive during the winter. And as autumn is a time where the old falls away, we can use special rituals to help us do the same. In this case, try taking pieces of paper and writing down the things, people, beliefs, and experiences you are ready to let go of. Speak your intention to let go, and offer the pages to the fire.
Write: As the equinox is a time of transition and change, it’s a wonderful time to journal, to get in touch with our inner selves. This time of year, use the following journaling prompts for powerful insights.
- What seeds did I plant this year? What did I harvest this year? What am I grateful for?
- What does balance mean, look like, and feel like for me? Have I been feeling balanced lately?
- What are the things I can let go of to make room for the new? Is there anything that I am clinging to or unwilling to let go of? How can I make it safe for myself to let go even if it’s scary or difficult?
- What does darkness mean to me? What are the gifts that darkness brings? How can I honor the darkness?
- Where do I go to find my light and warmth? How can I incorporate more of it into my life?
Receive Reiki: The transition phase between the seasons is the perfect time to get a Reiki treatment. Reiki will help you let go of the old and welcome in the new by cleansing and releasing the stagnant energy you might be carrying. Reiki can also correct physical or energetic imbalances in your body that might be throwing you off. The healing you experience through Reiki will allow you to tap into the powerful energy of the equinox more fully. If you would like to find a practitioner, Dragonfly – Reiki Marketplace has a variety of certified Reiki practitioners that can support you as we shift into a new season.
Final thoughts…
The Autumn Equinox is more than just the first day of fall. It’s a powerful time where celestial forces, ancient rituals, and spiritual wisdom unite as a new season is ushered in. Allow yourself to root deeply into nourishing traditions, celebrate with gratitude, reflect and release, bring balance into your life, and welcome the darkness. And grab yourself a Pumpkin spiced latte while you’re at it – Those things are delicious.
Remember to stay tuned for more articles about Reiki, business (and Reiki), health, and spirituality. We create something new every single week!
Leave Your Comment