Autumnal Equinox – a moment of balance between light and dark
The autumnal equinox is the perfect time to celebrate the balance between light and dark. On this day, the Sun is directly overhead on Earth’s equator, and the length of day and night is almost equal. Although this is not exactly true in reality – as the moment of equal day and night falls slightly before the spring equinox and slightly after the autumnal equinox – the symbolic meaning of the equinox is still strong.
In 2024, the autumnal equinox will be on Sunday, September 22, at exactly 3:43 p.m. Finnish time. This moment marks the official end of summer and the beginning of astronomical autumn, which will continue until the winter solstice, December 21, 2024.
You can celebrate this balance of nature with a simple and powerful ritual, either in nature, in your own yard, or even at home. Here is an example of how to celebrate the autumnal equinox and thereby welcome autumn.
1. Prepare the sacred space
Choose a peaceful place, either outdoors or indoors, where you can feel connected to nature or your own inner world. You can make a symbolic circle by placing rocks, candles, flowers, or other natural elements on the ground. This circle will serve as a sacred space in which to perform the ritual.
You will need:
- Natural objects, such as rocks, leaves, branches or flowers.
- A candle or small lantern to symbolize light.
2. Respecting balance
During the autumnal equinox, day and night are of equal length. This is the perfect time to sense the balance in your life. Begin the ritual by standing still and breathing deeply. Turn first to the east, symbolizing the light and life force of the day, and then to the west, symbolizing the stillness and rest of the night. Feel how these two forces are momentarily balanced.
You can mentally recite, “As above, so below; as within, so without.” This reminds you that everything is connected – nature and you are part of the same greater existence.
3. Lighting a Candle – The Balance of Light and Darkness
Light a candle or small lantern. This light symbolizes the strength you carry with you through the darkest season. When you light the candle, you can say a word of thanks or a wish for the season ahead. Place the candle in a sacred space.
Example statement : "I thank you for this light that guides me through the dark times. I am one with the cycle of nature."
4. Quiet Moment – Inner Balance
Sit with a candle or some natural objects and spend a moment in silence. This is a time for inner meditation. You can focus on your breath and feel connected to the universe. Remember that the autumnal equinox symbolizes the harmony between light and dark, activity and rest.
You can take the idea from the Emerald Tablet : "Truth is a strong and supreme force that can overcome all." This reminds us that finding inner truth brings power to life.
5. Decision – Giving thanks
When you feel calm, end the ritual by giving thanks. You can make a simple gesture, such as bowing, or raising your hands towards the sky and earth, symbolizing your connection to the universe and nature. Thank the earth, sky, light, and darkness for being a part of your life.
Blow out the candle quietly, and take a natural object with you to place in a place at home where you can remind yourself of the balance of the moment.
Finally
This ritual is a simple yet powerful way to celebrate the autumnal equinox and connect with the cycle of nature. You can do it anywhere, without complicated preparations – the key is to stop and find balance within yourself and the world around you.
I wish you peace and balance for the coming season 🌿✨
