For me, the beginning of the holiday season starts September 1st. The last few months of the year are my absolute favorite. I love to see change in colors and temperatures outside, cozy clothes, warm hearty foods and I start dreaming about all things Halloween, Thanksgiving and of course Christmas!! Although, officially its still summer until Monday September 23 which is the Autumn Equinox in our time zone. The equinox marks a time where we have equal length in day and night.
There are many easy ways to honor and embrace the change in seasons.
Clean your space
The autumn equinox, just like the spring equinox, is a great time to get rid of waste and excess, get organized and prepare for winter. Listen to your intuition and let go what no longer serves you. This includes both physical items and emotional/energetic . Take time to clear out your space allowing the energy to move freely. Once you have removed the physical excess, work to remove any stagnant energy, white sage is a great tool for energy cleansing.
Create an alter
Your alter can be as elaborate or simple as you like, a great place to start is by adding pumpkins and wreaths to your front yard or anything that you feel represents fall! Another option is to create a small space in your home where you can light your favorite candle or incense , diffuse your favorite oils, place some crystals or other special items in your space. Take time to bake something that represent fall to you. Its only important that it is special for you.
Reflect on your past year
Think about where you were a year ago and where you are today. What have you accomplished and what are you still working on? Where would you like to be at the end of the year?
Set intentions for the next few months
Once you have taken time to reflect on your past year, decide what you want and where you are going for the remainder of the year. The intentions we set now will carry us through the winter. Be clear on your desires and write them down.
Yoga for grounding and balance
This time of year we want to focus yoga poses and flows that ground us and help to increase/improve our balance.
My personal favs for grounding are:
Childs pose
Down ward facing dog
Malasana
Mountain Pose
For balance:
Warrior 3
Airplane
Balancing half moon/ revolved balancing half moon
Hold each pose for 5 to 10 breaths, if possible do it outside with bare feet in the earth.
Embrace the changes in the seasons and in life, enjoy the moment as we look onward to the near future.
