Autumn Equinox Celebration- A Time of Gratitude

Over the last few months we have been focused on how the pandemic has created loss and limitation. It has initiated a great deal of change for all of us. Even in the most difficult times, it is important to acknowledge the blessings that have come our way. 

As we approach the Autumn Equinox, I invite you to shift your gaze and explore what you have gained in the last several months.

The Equinoxes are a time when day and night are equal in length and each marks the beginning of the next season. Using ritual is a great way to be in sync with the Earth's energetic rhythms and be supported supported by them.

The Autumn Equinox, on Sept 22nd, is Harvest time. It is when we should be picking our crops, assessing our food piles and beginning to take the fruits of our labor and turn them into what would sustain us through the winter. It is a chance to intentionally gather all that has come to fruition since the previous Spring. In the same way, it’s a good time for you to look at what you have achieved and learned in the last few months. What resources have you gathered to hold you through until the next cycle of creation begins? These can be things that add to your ability to succeed or simply give you comfort.

Take the time to take stalk of your bounty & celebrate all that you are grateful for. Whenever we do this, we become stronger and more resourceful.

I hope the following play of journaling and ritual will support you to honor the beauty you’ve created thus far.

Gratitude Ritual to Celebrate the Autumn Equinox

1. Make a list of all the things you’ve achieved in the last year. Below are some journal questions to help you make your list.

• What new personal & professional skills have you gained?

• What new relationships have you developed that support you?

• What new joys have you discovered?

• What new self care strategies have you discovered that support and honor your needs?

• What goals have you achieved?

• How did you successfully overcome the challenges you faced?

• What have you done that you are proud of?

• What positive changes have occurred?

2. Once you have your list, find a small object to represent each item on your list. Have all your items gathered by Sept 21 and create a sacred space to set them out. While you are doing this, take the time with each item to acknowledge, feel and celebrate your growth.

3. If you like, you can create an event where you share this process with others. (This can be done over zoom.) It would be fun to take turns sharing the stories of each item in the spirit of celebration.

4. Create a special place to display these items so that they can be a reminder of your triumphs for as long as you need. This centerpiece can function as a reserve of supportive energy to be used when life presents challenges.

I hope you enjoy this little ritual and that it brings you encouragement and delight through the coming time. I would love to hear what it inspires for you.