The Fall Equinox Is Important For These 3 Reasons

Fall is about so much more than just pumpkin-flavored treats and changing leaves. Sure, it's the perfect time to shop for sweaters and lean into the all-things-cozy lifestyle, but it's also an opportunity to become your best self. There are many things the fall equinox symbolizes, including balance, preparation, and reflection. These are crucial skills we all have, and now is the time to put them to good use.

Leaving summer behind and heading into colder, darker days, we need these three things to get us through until the endless sun returns. This year, the fall equinox falls on September 22 at 10:21 a.m. EDT, which also marks the official start of fall. And fall is only going to last so long. You're probably already seeing Christmas decorations in stores, and in some parts of the country, snow will soon be falling. We need to cherish this breathtaking season while we still can, and the autumnal equinox is the perfect reason to celebrate.

And it doesn't really matter what time of year it is, if you're a Game of Thrones fan, you know that winter is coming — and right now it's actually true! So here's why you should celebrate the fall equinox, especially because of what it symbolizes.

Balance

Go hug all the Libras in your life, because this holiday is totally theirs. The astrology sign Libra kicks off on September 22, and the main basis behind the sign is all about balance. It stands for balance among the seasons, the hours of daylight and darkness — since the equinox occurs when the sun shines directly over the equator and gives us equal time with sunlight and darkness — and Libras themselves tend to crave balance in every aspect of their lives. Libra or not, balance should be a goal for everyone right now. Balance eases the mind, and creates a sense of control. Balance is comforting, and however you can achieve it, you definitely won't regret it.

Preparation

Animals prepare their bodies for winter hibernation. Farmers prepare their crops for the chilly days ahead when things struggle to grow. And even humans with all the technological advances and conveniences of modern society are still somewhat programmed to stay indoors and preserve energy during the colder months. To ward off the triggers of S.A.D., it's important for us to also mentally prepare for the darker days ahead and create positive routines now that keep us strong, healthy, and happy.

Reflection

Following preparation, and the natural assessment of our mental state paired with the physical comforts around us, we tend to reflect. Also, with the holiday season upon us, it's easy to fall into the trap of reflecting on our success by the money we spend and the things we receive wrapped in pretty paper. But it needs to go beyond all the superficial stuff, and we should start now. Look at the great things you accomplished this year, the amazing support system you have, and how you can make yourself feel even better than you already are. Don't focus on what you lack — just build on what you have.

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