First day of spring in 2024 falls on March 19th at 11:08pm. In many cultures and traditions, the spring equinox is celebrated as a time of renewal, rebirth, and the awakening of nature after the dormancy of winter. It’s a time to welcome the longer days and warmer weather, as well as to honor the balance between light and dark.
Many people associate spring with flowers, and deep cleaning. Let’s explore the history of this celestial occurrence and discover some rituals or ways we can celebrate the ushering in of a new season.
What is an equinox?
The spring equinox, also known as the vernal equinox, marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. It occurs around March 19th-21st each year when the sun crosses the celestial equator from south to north. During this time, day and night are approximately equal in length, hence the term “equinox,” which comes from the Latin words for “equal night.”
What is the significance of spring equinox?
The spring equinox holds astronomical, cultural, and spiritual significance. Astronomically, the spring equinox marks the moment when the Earth’s axis is neither tilted toward nor away from the sun, resulting in nearly equal lengths of day and night across the globe. This phenomenon occurs twice a year, in March and September, marking the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere.
Culturally and historically, the spring equinox has been celebrated by various civilizations as a time of renewal, fertility, and rebirth. It symbolizes the end of winter and the awakening of nature, as plants begin to sprout, animals emerge from hibernation, and temperatures gradually warm. Many cultures hold festivals, rituals, and ceremonies to honor the changing of seasons and to welcome the longer days and increased sunlight.
In spiritual and religious contexts, the spring equinox often represents themes of balance, harmony, and growth. It is seen as a time of transition, when the forces of light and darkness are in equilibrium before tipping in favor of longer days as spring progresses. Many traditions view the equinox as an auspicious time for cleansing, renewal, and setting intentions for the season ahead.
What are some ways to enrich the experience of spring equinox at home?
Nature Walk or Hike: My favorite way to usher in spring is to take advantage of the sprint days by taking a walk or hike in nature. Checking out your local parks or nature reserves is amazing opportunity to observe the changing landscape and emerging wildlife. Here in Alaska, the snow all around can make it hard to feel like spring. But, when I hiked yesterday, climbing my way above the trees, I found a place to be still and listen to the sounds of new life waking up all around me. My feet resting in the snow, the warm sun on my face, and the birds chirping around me brought in a shift of new energy waking up both in and around me.
Spring Cleaning: Spring cleaning is a time-honored tradition that serves both practical and symbolic purposes. It offers an opportunity to refresh the home and welcome the arrival of spring with a sense of renewal and vitality. Many people find it to be a cathartic way to declutter both your physical space and your mind. After being cooped up indoors during the winter months, we often feel a desire to refresh our living spaces and prepare for the arrival of spring. Spring cleaning provides an opportunity to open windows, let in fresh air, and create a clean and welcoming environment. Spring cleaning typically involves more than just routine tidying up. It often includes tasks such as washing windows, vacuuming and mopping floors, dusting surfaces, cleaning upholstery, and organizing closets and storage areas. Some people also use the opportunity to declutter their homes by donating or discarding items they no longer need.organizing closets, deep cleaning the home, and creating a fresh, inviting atmosphere for the new season.
Creating a Spring Altar or Sacred Space: Each month I have been creating a new altar to represent what I am seeking in my month. I walk around my home, feeling out what objects speak to me, pick a book to learn from, and experiment with drying flowers, creating herb packets, or bringing in crystals that support the energy I am hoping to carry with me that month. It has truly been a meditative practice that reminds me to be intentional with my days. I keep my sacred space in the middle of my busiest room (my kitchen), to remind me to find pause and reflections in my day. I find this helps me stay grounded on hard days, and keeps me focused on following my own energy in the middle of taking care of an entire household of people. For spring, I moved a live plant to the center of my altar and decorated with light, spring colors to bring in symbols of renewal and growth.
As the New Season Begins
Overall, the spring equinox carries rich symbolism and meaning across various cultures and traditions, serving as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the eternal rhythm of the natural world. I encourage you to take time for self-reflection and to look outside for symbols of rebirth, transformation, and gratitude as we transition into the new season.
Happy Spring Equinox!
Lee