Celebrate the Equinox with Yoga: A Practice to Welcome Autumn and Balance Your Energy.

The autumn equinox is a time of balance, where the day and night are of equal length. In many spiritual traditions, it is seen as a time of transition, marking the end of summer and the beginning of fall. It is a time of harvest, where we reap what we have sown, both in a literal sense, as well as metaphorically in our lives.

The autumn equinox is also associated with the element of air and the direction of west. It is a time when the veil between the worlds is believed to be thin, making it easier to connect with the spirit realm and our ancestors. Many people use this time to honor and connect with their loved ones who have passed away, as well as to seek guidance and wisdom from the spiritual realm.

The autumn equinox is also a time to reflect on the changes that have occurred over the past year and to prepare for the coming winter. It is a time to release what no longer serves us, to let go of old patterns, and to make space for new growth and transformation.

In many spiritual practices, the autumn equinox is a time for ritual and ceremony, such as lighting candles, burning incense, and creating altars to honor the season and connect with the spiritual energy of the earth. It is a time to embrace the natural rhythms of the earth and to align ourselves with the flow of the seasons.

As the leaves begin to turn and the days grow shorter, we approach the autumnal equinox, a time of balance and transition. This is the moment when the sun is directly above the equator, and day and night are equal in length. For yogis, the equinox is an opportunity to connect with the rhythms of nature and to welcome the changing season.

Here are some yoga poses you can practice to celebrate the equinox and find balance in your body and mind.

Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
Stand tall and strong like a tree in Tree Pose. Begin by standing with your feet hip-width apart. Lift your right foot and place it on your left thigh, pressing your foot and thigh together. Bring your hands to your heart center, and imagine yourself rooted firmly to the ground, like a tree with deep, strong roots. Hold for several breaths, and then switch sides.

Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)
Embody the warrior spirit in Warrior II. Begin by standing with your feet wide apart, and turn your right foot out to the side. Reach your arms out to the sides, and bend your right knee, so that it is directly over your ankle. Gaze out over your right hand, and breathe deeply. Hold for several breaths, and then repeat on the other side.

Garland Pose (Malasana)
Open your hips and connect with the earth in Garland Pose. Begin by standing with your feet hip-width apart, and squat down as low as you can, bringing your feet together if possible. Bring your hands to your heart center, and use your elbows to gently press your knees apart. Hold for several breaths, and then release.

Camel Pose (Ustrasana)
Open your heart and connect with the sky in Camel Pose. Begin by kneeling on the ground, with your knees hip-width apart. Reach your arms back, and place your hands on your lower back or on your heels. Lift your chest towards the sky, and breathe deeply. Hold for several breaths, and then release.

Corpse Pose (Savasana)
Relax and surrender in Corpse Pose. Lie down on your back, with your arms and legs outstretched. Close your eyes, and allow your body to fully release and let go. Breathe deeply, and feel yourself supported by the earth beneath you. Hold for several minutes, and then slowly come back to a seated position.

These poses can help you find balance and connection during the equinox, as you welcome the changing season and connect with the rhythms of nature. Remember to breathe deeply and move with intention, as you practice these poses and honor the balance and transition of this special time of year.