Jocelyn Krasner The Autumnal Equinox, the official first day of Fall, was this week, Thursday, September 22nd—and it announced its arrival with delicious, chilly breezes—a distinct barometer drop here on the east coast! I love it. The windows are cracked, the AC is on hiatus, and my humble abode feels fresh and cool as the true essence of Fall wafts through.
On the Autumnal Equinox, the sun is directly over the earth’s equator, and there are equal hours of the day and night. Since the Summer Solstice, days have been getting shorter and, from now until the Vernal Equinox, days will remain shorter than nights. But enough with the technical stuff… How will you enjoy Fall and kick off the season, aside from giving your sweaters and jackets a front row seat in your wardrobe?
A FEW WAYS TO FEEL FALL’S JOY…
How will you kick off the Fall season? Here are a few ideas to get you inspired….
GO FOR A CRISP FALL HIKE, taking your time as you walk and really feel the earth beneath your feet. Focus on your posture, relax your shoulders, and “roll” from the heel to ball-of-foot to toes with each step.
As leaves fall from the trees and swirl around with the breeze, the energy shift is palpable. It is often a challenge to remain grounded, as we ourselves are transitioning, too.
Fall is the perfect time to focus on grounding energy and walking with intention is a great way to so. Once you get into the groove, relax more and just enjoy the scenery and environment—the change of color, the coolness of the air on your skin, the sounds of nature as your stroll… Do you live in the city? Find the nearest park.
HEAD TO YOUR LOCAL FARMER’S MARKET for a beautiful bounty of apples (there are so many new and hybrid varieties these days), hearty winter greens such as kale and collards, grounding root veggies and Winter squash. The variety is incredible this time of year.
Aim to fill you basket or tote with a rainbow of colors for the best, most comprehensive variety of nutrients—every color has different vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, antioxidants, etc.
Then, make your favorite soup. Roast your roots and winter squash with olive, salt and pepper. Bake some apples with maple syrup, cinnamon and walnuts. Use your imagination and fill your home with yummy Autumnal aromas.
And, don’t forget to buy two pumpkins—one for your Fall decor and one to open, scoop out the seeds and roast with sea salt. Yum.
START PLANNING YOUR THANKSGIVING MENU. Begin to ponder what you wish to serve, from the main course to the sides and wine. Make it chock full of local and organic produce, and check resources for an organic, humanely raised turkey as well as vegan options, like stuffed acorn or butternut squash. Think about your family’s traditions—incorporate a few as well as something new. Create a guest list. Invite someone unexpected who may not have family in town. Not into cooking for 48 hours straight? Assign your guests a dish to prepare and take the edge off. As much as I love tradition, I think it’s important to embrace change, as we are all transitioning, at all times—just like the seasons. Happy Fall y’all!
