The autumnal equinox is one of my favourite times of year. It was when I was formally dedicated into my previous coven, and though I’m no longer involved in such structured group work, it still carries fond nostalgia and powerful, positive memories for me. It’s also been a time of great transformation in my life, from the recovery of the back-to-school seasonal depression to career changes to personal twists in my life and the lives of those I love — things happen around the equinox, often without explanation.

Having said that, it can be easy to lose sight of the equinox itself in the tumult of busy-busy that often occurs at this time of year. September is a hectic time for many people. So how do you go beyond seeing September 22^nd (for 2025, the equinox in the UK is on the 22^nd) as just another day and focus on its astronomically magical properties as an equinox?

Reflect

One of the strongest aspects of the equinox for me is the potential for reflection. You don’t need masses of time or tools for this. Just a moment to breathe and consider what you’ve done so far this year. Are you working towards your goals? Is that even on the cards, or is simply living day-to-day your main focus right now? Have you been kind to yourself and others?

Don’t beat yourself up if you’re not where you planned to be. The equinox is about balance, and that includes balancing your needs with your ambitions and motivation. If you’re “behind” in some way, there’s probably a very good reason, so be as kind to yourself in your judgments as you would be to a friend or loved one.

Pause

To reflect, one must be still in some way. After all, what can you see when the wind brushes over the surface of the lake? The reflections of the moon and trees become distorted, almost unrecognisable. You need to wait for the zephyr to pass so you can see the full picture.

If, like me, you find that stillness doesn’t come naturally, simply pausing and finding a moment to do something outside your routine can help. I play guitar and sing, and find that this clears my mind enough for inspiration and epiphany to rise to the surface.

Look Forward

Taking a moment to reflect and recharge is essential. The equinox is also a great time to look forward, set goals, and consider how you plan to be for the coming season. Many see the equinox as the start of autumn, even though here in Yorkshire, we’re usually feeling well into the season already! Think about what you want from this season and the next and how you’re going to get it. That can be as convoluted as a set of structured rituals and meditations or as simple as eating a healthy breakfast or remembering to take your medication.

All of these aspects of Autumn Equinox Magic can be achieved with nothing more than yourself. You may want to journal to record your feelings, thoughts, or any goals you set, and you can use music, incense, and other tools as you wish to enhance your experience. Just remember that the magic comes from the meeting of you and this undeniably entrancing time of the year.

Practically Pagan: Planet-Friendly Living is about finding ways to celebrate and embrace your spiritual or Pagan path while walking lightly on the earth and causing minimal environmental impact.

Mabh Savage is a Yorkshire Witch, Pagan author, and musician with a particular interest in Irish spirituality, and folklore from all across the U.K. and Ireland. She’s also a member of the global Covenant of Hekate and has assisted in some fascinating collaborative projects such as working with members all over the world to create a song for Hekate.

Mabh is the secretary of the Pagan Federation Children and Families Team, a group that aims to make life easier for Pagan families in England and Wales. She’s also the current editor of Aether, the magazine for Pagan families.

She’s been a member of the UK Green Party for many years, and believes firmly that it’s possible to reverse the damage being done to our planet with the right focus and action now.

For more details: https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com/moon-books/authors/mabh-savage