Happy Autumn Equinox!🍂 - Stepping into Darkness 🌚
Hello beautiful soul,
As the Autumn Equinox approaches on September 23rd this year, I find myself almost welcoming the new season. As I write this newsletter, rain is pouring down, creating a cozy atmosphere as I enjoy my homemade apple crumble alongside a comforting cup of cinnamon tea. It paints a vivid picture of a typical Autumn day. I must admit, I'm quite comfortable with this change of season. If you've been following my previous newsletters, you'll know it's been a busy time, and I'm now ready to embrace the fruits of my labor in our new home.
Speaking of our new home, it still requires a lot of work, but these rainy days are perfect for planning and creating Pinterest boards, as well as tackling some painting projects. Our new kitchen is set to arrive by the end of November, so we'll be preparing the space in the coming weeks. It felt somewhat surreal when we were choosing the kitchen, almost like picking a photo on Pinterest for our future home. However, as time passes, it's becoming more and more real. Moving into this new home feels like a significant step in creating the life and family we desire. I met Koen about two years ago, and it feels like we're ready to take on the world together. My heart is filled with love and gratitude. I'll refrain from drifting off too far, but rest assured, I'll share some photos of our home in the upcoming newsletter!
In this newsletter, I'll discuss the transition to Autumn and the shift from the Virgo to Libra zodiac season. Additionally, I've drawn a card to gain insights for us as a collective, specifically related to Autumn. I hope you enjoy reading this newsletter and have a beautiful transition into Fall.
Autumn Equinox 🍂
As mentioned earlier, the Autumn Equinox falls on September 23rd this year. This event signifies the astronomical conclusion of Summer and the commencement of Autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. On this particular day, there's a near balance between the hours of daylight and nighttime in terms of illumination.
Following the Autumn Equinox, we witness the gradual lengthening of nights, marking the transition into the darker half of the year until the arrival of the Spring Equinox. For many, this seasonal shift can be the most challenging of the year as we transition from the dynamic and outgoing yang energy of Summer into a period of introspection and introverted yin energy. This time of year can be viewed as the yin phase—a time for inner reflection, self-discovery, rest, integration, release, and preparation for Winter.
During Autumn, Mother Earth undergoes a similar process of letting go. Leaves change color and gracefully fall from the trees. It's the season for the year's final harvest as plants cease their food production, and animals diligently gather provisions to prepare for the impending long and cold winter. 🦔 🐿️
Much like Mother Nature, we, too, require these seasonal changes. It's neither feasible nor healthy to perpetually dwell in the vibrant and active energy of Summer, as it can lead to burnout. Similar to Mother Nature, we necessitate periods of rest. Just as the Moon wanes after the full moon, and Summer yields to Autumn.
I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the following questions:
How well do you align with the natural rhythms of the seasons?
In which season do you feel most at ease?
Libra Season ⚖️
On the very day of the Autumn Equinox, the Sun gracefully transitions into the constellation of Libra, represented by the balancing scale. This zodiac archetype embodies the concept of partnership, where relationships are founded on consciousness and equality, free from hierarchies and dominance. In such partnerships, the contributions of both individuals are equally valued, each bringing their unique gifts to the table. Companionship holds a paramount role in life, whether in the realm of work or personal connections, as Libra is the sign that embarks on a journey of self-discovery through meaningful relationships with others.
For Libras, the challenge can often lie in the risk of losing themselves within the dynamics of a partnership. Their innate openness to consider diverse perspectives can sometimes lead them to submerge their own voice within the opinions of others or the collective consensus. The key lesson here is to maintain a firm connection with one's inner self—listening to intuition, embracing personal truths, and authentically expressing one's own voice. It's an ongoing quest to find that delicate balance on the scale between the inner and outer worlds.
What I find fascinating about working with the diverse energies and archetypes of the zodiac is that every year, a distinct theme resonates more strongly. Last year, my focus was firmly on the theme of partnership during Libra season—how to nurture fruitful, equitable, conscious, and sustainable relationships. This year, my attention is drawn toward staying true to my inner self and my personal truths while engaging with others. It involves embracing multiple voices and truths without losing sight of my own voice and authenticity. It's a mindful recognition that several truths can coexist harmoniously. I'm genuinely intrigued to learn what resonates with you during this Libra season!
The Dark Goddess 🌚
"What might the shift in seasons hold for us as a collective?" I inquired of my recently acquired card deck, The Herbal Astrology Oracle. The card I selected, number 7, features PAU D'ARCO, symbolizing Metamorphosis—a journey through darkness, a transcendence of the familiar, the unearthing of fears, a path of nonconformity, and the breaking of cycles.
“Pau D’arco — commonly known as taheebo or lapacho— is one of the most beautiful trees on earth. With over a hundred varieties, this tree has been used medicinally among many tribal peoples throughout Central and South America.”
Guidance: “Lapacho is one of the great protectors of the sacred, and she is welcoming you in. Archetypically, Pau D’arco embodies one of the faces of the dark goddess in her mighty splendor. The Dark Goddess is multifaceted, challenging belief systems, frailties, weaknesses, and testing our strength. Like Pluto, Lapacho demands you rebel against the ignorance of the old self and learned paradigms that inhibit the splendor of your self-expression. Her mighty darkness provides the tool to rebuild ourselves anew, triggering instant metamorphosis. Don’t fear the unknown nature of mystery; the cosmic womb, in its darkness, births all hidden potentials into existence. Trust and step in, you are being guided.”
As we transition into the Fall season, we not only step into diminished daylight but also into deeper themes. Autumn invites us to engage in a process of composting, letting go, and surrender. It serves as a period of introspection, prompting us to closely examine ourselves, our lives, and our habits. It's a time to discern what no longer serves us, what offers no benefit, and what is ready to be relinquished and transformed into fertile compost. It's worth noting that Scorpio's influence, connected to Pluto, may lead to more profound shadow work and transformation later in the Autumn season.
However, with the arrival of Libra, we embark on a journey toward balance. This season encourages self-discovery through connections with others, helping us find our inner voice and truth while maintaining a strong connection with ourselves.
May the Dark Goddess guide you on your inner journey of self-discovery. 🕯️
