There is nothing permanent except change. Heraclitus

The seasons inevitably bring change with them and the autumn is about bringing in the harvest, taking stock as well as providing for the winter. Sometimes it can feel like being one step ahead of the weather and constantly paying attention to detail. This can also be a metaphor for other aspects of our lives. This year’s Autumnal Equinox is no different and that “paying attention to detail” is vital. In order to do that, we need to be extra grounded and present.

Staying focused can be a challenge so it is a good idea to have a simple grounding routine that you can keep to. Walking on the earth barefoot (even for a few seconds), connecting with any trees around you in parks or the countryside, putting earthing images on your screensavers, eating lots of root vegetables and earthy food – all these help. Notice healing opportunities, whether they are physical, emotional, mental or spiritual, and take advantage of them. It is also a good time to let go of old resentments and fears. Forgiveness exercises and Gratitude practices are very helpful at this time. A simple practice is think of three small things you are genuinely grateful for each morning and again in the evening.

Challenges that may come up are fault finding with partners, keeping good boundaries, our own moodiness and that of others as well as control issues. A particularly confronting aspect of this Equinox is being aware of the “charmer/gushing sycophant” and false praise in others or ourselves. All of these can act as deflections from our sense of purpose and moving forwards. To counterbalance these challenges, we can concentrate on authenticity/self-honesty and connect with like minded people, meditate and tap into the spiritual wisdom of our “elders”. There is always a golden opportunity to do this mid-Equinox at Samhain around 31st October.

The planet, the earth, the animal kingdom and all humanity are crying out this Equinox for respect and kindness – asking us to make the changes we need to in order to survive and thrive. We can only challenge and change our own internal attitudes that in turn will flow out and join those of others. Although this is a tough Equinox, there is a sense of being part of a supportive energy and coming out the other side with joy and gentleness – resisting the urge to give in and give up. There is still a lot of inspiration available.