Mabon & Autumn Equinox

09.20 - 09.24.2023

Autumn is officially here!!!!!!

September 20- 24 is the Wiccan Sabbat Mabon, celebrating the year's second harvest and giving thanks for all the blessings of Spring and Summer, with the 23rd marking the Autumn Equinox. The Equinox is when there is equal daylight and dark of night before the days get shorter as we head towards the Winter Solstice.

It's probably no surprise that this is my favorite time of year. I'm sure part of that is being a November baby. In Colorado, the summers get so hot that I don't know many who don't look forward to fall, with a bit of dread about winter.

So, starting the season out with Mabon can give you some direction and purpose to make sure you really enjoy Autumn while it lasts and to prepare for the hibernation of winter. Making the most of this time can make the isolation of winter more bearable.

Besides typical fall activities, do you do anything special to celebrate the season?

I try to do some deep cleaning and catch up on unfinished projects. It's also a great time to energy cleanse your home before you're closed in for the winter!

Any burning smoke you choose works; it doesn't have to be sage. You can also use resins: pine, frankincense, or myrrh. Bundles of lavender, eucalyptus, or pine needles. Woods like sustainably harvested Palo Santo or cedar. Open all the windows and smoke all that stagnant energy out; start in a northern corner or a spot that feels good for you and work in a circle around your home.

Make sure your intention is clear. I usually come up with a couple of affirmations to repeat throughout. Burn safely!

Whether your harvesting is literal or metaphorical, say "thank you" and then share your gratitude and joy with others.

My harvesting and sharing has been more literal this year than I expected.

Our first raised garden was such a success; we have so many zucchini and peppers that we've been enjoying sharing the fruits of our labor just as much as the fruits themselves. I've made so much zucchini bread, and I feel so blessed to be able to share my love in this way!

My metaphorical harvesting and sharing is coming in the form of sharing and connecting with live-hearted folks. It's still wild to me that folks seek out a connection with me based on my experience and outlook. And it fills me with such gratitude that I can do that because when I was going through many challenging experiences, I didn't know if I would make it to the other side, let alone be able to guide and support others when they find themselves in similar situations. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Of course, Wiccans love a bone fire, and Mabon is no different. After you've given thanks, shared, and prepared for winter, it's time to celebrate all that hard work!

Get together with friends and loved ones, get cozy at home, cook, eat, drink, laugh, dance, sing, be joyful! And say it over and over again, "Thank You!"