As the Earth tilts, the days grow shorter, and we find ourselves transitioning from the warmth of summer to the cool embrace of autumn. The Autumn Equinox on September 22 marks a moment of perfect balance, where day and night are of equal length. In the rhythm of nature, this balance invites us to pause and reflect. It's a time to honour the changing seasons both externally and within ourselves.
What is the Equinox?
The word “equinox” comes from Latin, meaning “equal night.” Twice a year, in March and September, the Earth’s axis aligns in such a way that the sun shines directly over the equator, giving us an equal length of daylight and darkness. These two equinoxes are moments of equilibrium—nature's reminder of the balance between light and dark, activity and rest, growth and surrender.
For many cultures and spiritual traditions, the equinox is a time to celebrate harvest and abundance, a time to acknowledge the fruits of our labour and prepare for the slower, introspective season ahead.
Yoga and the Autumn Equinox
In yoga, balance is at the heart of our practice. Whether it's the balance of breath, the steadiness of a pose, or the harmony between body and mind, yoga teaches us to seek equilibrium in all aspects of life. The equinox offers a unique opportunity to align our practice with the rhythms of the Earth. As we transition from the outward energy of summer to the quieter energy of autumn, our yoga practice can reflect this shift:
Grounding Poses
As the season shifts, we can ground ourselves with poses like Mountain Pose (Tadasana), Warrior Poses (Virabhadrasana), and Tree Pose (Vrksasana). These postures help us cultivate stability and strength, drawing our energy inward.
Balancing Breath
Just as the equinox is a time of equal light and dark, pranayama (breath control) can help us create balance within. Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) is a wonderful practice for calming the mind, balancing the nervous system, and preparing for the introspection of autumn.
Reflective Meditation
The changing season is a powerful reminder of the cycles of life. Taking time for meditation can help us reflect on the past few months, express gratitude for what we’ve harvested, and set intentions for the season ahead.
Letting Go
Just as the trees begin to shed their leaves, the equinox can be a symbolic time for us to let go of what no longer serves us. This could be a negative habit, a lingering doubt, or even clutter in our physical space. Incorporating a practice of mindful release—through asanas, journaling, or meditation—can be a liberating way to align with nature’s cycle of renewal.
Welcoming the New Season with Yoga
As we move into autumn, we invite you to join us in honouring the equinox through your yoga practice. Whether you prefer to practice in the stillness of your home or join a class, this is a wonderful time to embrace balance in both body and spirit.
The equinox reminds us that life is a constant dance between opposing forces—light and dark, expansion and contraction, movement and stillness. Yoga offers us a way to navigate these transitions with grace and ease. So, take a deep breath, find your centre, and embrace the natural flow of this beautiful season.
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