The autumn equinox, which typically occurs around September 21st-23rd in the Northern Hemisphere, represents a moment of balance. On this day, Earth is in balance, evenly split between north and south, warm and cold, light and dark. With the Earth, in effect, straight up and the sun not taking sides, we have an equinox.
During this event, twice a year, the world rebalances itself, representing Universal harmony. Some say that if we connect to that wisdom, anything is possible.
Finding balance during the autumn equinox is a symbolic and often spiritual practice that aligns with the changing seasons. For example, in astrology, the autumnal equinox marks the sun entering Libra, a sign of justice, harmony, and balance, and accordingly symbolized by a scale. And in Traditional Chinese Medicine, fall is the season of Metal with themes of finding balance in boundaries and structure; perfection and strength; self-worth and value.
Cultivating balance in our lives is an ever-changing effort. However, small efforts can lead to big change, even change to the world as we know it. There are three aspects to life that can always use a bit of balancing – ourselves, our interactions, and our world.
Finding Balance Within
Balance within is the key to unlocking balance everywhere else. Calmness, contentment, and worth, when these feelings are strong, we feel centered and complete. The season of Metal, with its attributes of worth and value, also invites reflection on one’s own self-worth and value/s, as well as boundaries and obligations, all of which can throw us off our game.
During this moment of equidistant light and dark and through the fall season, consider how you’re balancing activity and rest – on a daily balance, as well as throughout the year. If you’re feeling frantic, identify contributing factors.
And with less daylight ahead, consider where you’re allocating your time. Is there a balance between work, relationships, self-care, and personal growth? With only so many hours in the day, it can help to adjust priorities to help create a more harmonious life. To help visualize the balance in your life, try our Wheel of Life.
The falling leaves during this time of year acts as a reminder to release what no longer serves, which includes commitments, clutter, and relationships. What’s worth keeping? Prepare for winter by detoxifying your life and cutting ties with draining energies. And plan ahead by calendaring time with loved ones in order to stock up on nourishing and fulfilling time with the people who matter most.
How’s your health? Are you noticing any changes in body and mind that need addressing? Now’s a great time to schedule acupuncture to help balance Qi and create more flow within.
And lastly, in this season of metal, ideas of self-worth and value are aspects that calls for our attention.
Finding Balance in our Interactions with the World
There are times when our own thoughts, other people, or the environment influence us in the wrong direction. However, aligning our external actions with our inner spirit can be hard. But by ignoring our inner voice or consciousness, we can create dissonance and conflict in our lives. Consider using this time to remember your own moral principles and how they can guide your interaction with the world.
Finding Balance in the World
Balance in the world is a never-ending and often overwhelming task. Yet, by acting from our ethics and moral principles, we help cultivate more consciousness and equality in the world. This can be found in acts like picking up trash along the beach, voting, and staying on top of current affairs. Or through volunteering, donation or activism.
Ultimately, keeping the balance within and caring for yourself, will not only help create more contentment in your life, but may inspire others to do the same. For more inspiration and pointers about bringing more balance into your life, check out Psychology Today’s two-part series, Finding Balance in Imbalance.
Sources:
Atlihan, Lillianne. The Autumn Equinox: A Reflection on Balance. The Yinova Center.
Nemon, Howard. 3 Ways to Stay Balanced in an Unbalanced World. Prama, 2 Sept. 2020.
Trainor, Ken. Equinox = Balance. Oak Park, 22 Sept. 2021.
Image Sources:
Photo by Thought Catalog from Pexels
