In Greek mythology, the beginning of fall was marked with Persephone's return to the Underworld for three months, reuniting with her husband, Hades. Those following Pagan and Celtic traditions celebrate Mabon (MAY-bone) on this day. A day to celebrate a bountiful season, a day where there are equal parts of light and darkness - feminine and masculine energies. The Autumn Equinox is one of two days throughout the year where there is perfect balance between the feminine and the masculine.
In ancient Celtic traditions, the Autumnal Equinox is typically celebrated as a rest after a long and hard harvest season - a feast was thrown with loved ones and the community.
In more modern times, the Autumnal Equinox is now celebrated as the 'first day of fall'. The sun is directly over the equator (the only other time this happens is the Spring Equinox - otherwise known as Ostara or Eostre) giving the entire world equal parts day and night.
If you're looking for a few ways to celebrate the day, try some of these out:
Create fall themed art
Make a list of things you are grateful for
Begin a new project to keep yourself busy through the dark winter
Visit a local farm or farmers market
Eat a fall themed meal with your loved ones
Decorate your home or space
Take time to reflect on the last several months
This is a time of great balance and should be a moment for anyone to take a breath, and take it all in. Three more months of the year, you've gotten nine out of the way. Enjoy the day, start a new tradition or put your fall decorations up. Anyway you decide to celebrate - find time for yourself too.
