The spring equinox, also known as the vernal equinox, marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. It occurs around March 20th or 21st each year when the tilt of the Earth’s axis is neither inclined away from nor towards the Sun, resulting in roughly equal lengths of day and night. This astronomical event signals the transition from shorter winter days to longer daylight hours as the Sun crosses the celestial equator from south to north.
During the spring equinox, both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres experience roughly equal amounts of daylight and darkness, with the Sun rising due east and setting due west. Culturally, the spring equinox has been celebrated in various ways across different societies, often symbolizing renewal, rebirth, and the start of agricultural activities.
I love to create some fun rituals of my own, or at least make a few changes to the everyday during this time of the year. A few of my favorite ways to celebrate the spring equinox include the following.
Spring Equinox Ideas:
- Plant a garden. If space is limited you could easily use a few pots to still create the idea of growth and sustainability in small ways. Tomatoes and herbs are great small space harvests and are fairly easy to grow. If you have a larger garden space you can try growing some new vegetables to broaden your repertoire and bring new ideas into your culinary routine. I planted a variety of radishes this year to try pickling them!
- Change up your Yoga practice. Move into standing poses such as Warrior I, Warrior II, and Triangle Pose. These poses help to build strength, stability, and connection to the earth while also opening up the body. Heart Openers like Camel Pose, Bridge Pose, or Wheel Pose invite openness and expansion into your practice. As you open your heart, visualize yourself welcoming new opportunities and possibilities. Balancing Poses such as Tree Pose, Eagle Pose, or Dancer Pose to cultivate stability and equilibrium. Focus on finding balance both physically and mentally, reflecting the balance of day and night during the equinox.
- Use essential oils. For the spring equinox, you might want to consider using essential oils that evoke feelings of renewal, freshness, and balance. Here are some essential oils that can be great for celebrating the spring equinox: Lavender is calming and soothing, making it perfect for promoting relaxation and balance during the equinox transition. Lemon essential oil is refreshing and uplifting. Its citrus scent can help to energize and invigorate your space, symbolizing the fresh start of spring. Peppermint is known for its invigorating and cooling properties. It can help to awaken the senses and promote clarity of mind as you embrace the new season. Geranium essential oil is often associated with balance and harmony. Its floral aroma can help to create a sense of stability and equilibrium during the equinox.
- Create a spiritual ritual. Engaging in spiritual practices or rituals during this time can deepen one’s spiritual connection or provide a sense of inner peace and harmony. For some individuals, the spring equinox holds spiritual significance as a time of balance between light and darkness, and as a symbol of spiritual awakening or enlightenment. Write down any negative thoughts, habits, or emotions that you wish to release with the passing of winter. Visualize these things leaving your life as you write them down.After writing, safely burn the paper (using a fireproof container) as a symbol of releasing these burdens. Or, light a candle or some incense to signify the beginning of your ritual. Then, say a prayer or invocation to invite in the energies of spring and any deities or spirits you wish to work with.
The spring equinox marks the beginning of spring, a season associated with new life, growth, and rejuvenation. Celebrating this event can serve as a symbolic reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the opportunity for personal renewal and growth. Observing the spring equinox can foster a deeper connection to the natural world. As daylight hours increase and temperatures rise, many people feel a renewed sense of vitality and appreciation for the beauty of the environment. The changing of seasons often prompts introspection and reflection. Celebrating the spring equinox can be an opportunity to reflect on personal goals, aspirations, and intentions for the coming months, much like the tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions. And finally, as spring brings new life and abundance, celebrating the equinox can be an expression of gratitude for the gifts of the natural world and a celebration of life’s abundance and beauty.
