Autumn is a time to slow down, regenerate and prepare. Fall breezes give a refreshing stir to the hot summer air. What a perfect time to harvest the rhythm of nature to make a new start!
For all of nature, the Autumnal (September) Equinox signals change. Animals and humans adapt their living conditions based on their habitats as a change in temperature affects vegetation and the variety and quantity of foods available. Animals choose to take in more food, migrate or hibernate. Fauna, flora and fungi absorb nutrients and shed what is no longer needed.
Wise women feel these shifts of the season too. Welcome the change and be open to new beginnings. Take pause, listen to your intuition as you plan for future growth, and release what no longer serves you.
Harvest health and give yourself what you crave as temperatures change. Maybe a sauna, foot soak, herbal bath or cozy socks and a weighted blanket. Eating warm nourishing foods will bring the body nutrients and comfort. Foods transition from raw fruits and salads to cooked root vegetable soups and stews. Eat from the fall harvests and add in warming spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, garlic, ginger, horseradish, and nutmeg. These also help protect against colds and flus, especially helpful for the coming seasons.
Here are five ways you can refresh your life with the autumnal equinox:
1. HARVEST SUNSHINE
Earlier nights and shorter days may have people feeling fatigued and needing more rest to adjust to the new rhythm. Having less sunshine increases melatonin and decreases Vitamin D. Both directly affect our energy levels and mood, notice shifts in your behavior. Support your health by getting sunlight on your face each morning, supplement with Vitamin D and try herbal blends for optimal health. Find support for more restful sleep with
Sweet Dreams. Soothe stress along with boosting healthy energy levels with
American ginseng and encourage a positive mindset with
Mood Enhancer.
2. FEEL THE FORECAST
Changes in barometric pressure are often felt by people suffering from headaches, migraines and joint pain. Scientists say the fall in pressure allows tissues to swell and expand. This causes pressure within the body and increases pain and stiffness, which is amplified when paired with a drop in temperature. Indulge in extra self care and choose gentle forms of movement. Reduce tension in the mind with
Liquid Serenity and soothe joint inflammation with a
Joint Support Salve massage.
3. GLOWING SKIN IS ALWAYS IN
“Autumn skin” may include a variety of irritations, caused by build up, temperature changes or the release of toxins. Dry skin is common in cold crisp air. Combat skin changes from getting stretched too tight by including a gentle exfoliant and thicker moisturizer (bonus points for SPF) in your daily routine. Stay dedicated to adequate hydration and drink water at room temperature or warmer for easier absorption.
Wild Weed Salve is a fast acting remedy for dry cracked skin and our
Skin Deep liquid herbal extract will help your skin glow from the inside out.
4. FEEL THAT…OTHER AWAKENING?
This time of year has the testosterone levels increasing in all male and female living beings. Greater testosterone levels leads to higher fertility and sex drive. Allow yourself the desire for warmth and company, shack up indoors with a romantic movie. Unwind and honor yourself and any peaks in romance this mating season.
Ashwagandha is both an adaptogen, helps the body resist stressors of physical, chemical or biological origin, and an aphrodisiac, it supports a healthy libido. Try our new blends
Women’s Cycle Comfort or
Healthy Prostate to support hormones and healthy function.
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5. BREATHE
Make room for new energy, plans and aspirations. The Universe has heard your worries and desires. Allow this shift in consciousness, manifest what your soul pulls you towards. Journal what you’re harvesting, channel abundance, prosperity and health. Deepen your practices of meditation and letting go to strengthen your belief and trust in self and spirit. Harmonize with
Hyssop known as “The Holy Herb” good for protection, purification and spiritual cleansing. This sacred and ancient herb also has a long history helping as an expectorant for the respiratory system, works as a digestive aid and relaxes the intestines.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn signals a time to detox and clean out the body and environment. Focus on protecting and preparing the lungs and large intestines (clear out build up and constipation). The lungs are the rhythm maker, setting the pace for the body’s movements. Let go of toxic thinking, and relinquish past hurt. Declutter your surroundings and make home comfortable.
In Astrology we learn the Autumnal Equinox signals balance. Sun creates day and moon creates night in equal balance. Sun moves into Libra, the sign of the balanced scales. Find your balance by tuning into self and turning to nature for added support. Recall your intentions from earlier in the year, acknowledge your efforts. The change in seasons is almost palpable as the energy once flowing outward now turns inward. As you go inward, remain optimistic and maintain peace of mind for your future. Remember, you are your own healer and there is a radiant voice within that guides us. Gently reclaim your wisdom and move into harvesting the cozy energy of you!
For thousands of years, women have trusted their intuition, turning to nature for support as seasons change. Wise Woman Herbals offers traditional herbal products that support energy, vitality, rest, and rebirth. Work with your trusted healthcare provider, who understands your health history, to avoid adverse effects or interactions with medications.Â
This blog was written by Meg Ramirez, please click here to learn more about the author.