Mabon, observed in September at the autumn equinox (this year it is September 22), traditionally celebrates the bounty of the second harvest and the winding down of the growing season.
Astrologically, it marks the beginning of the sun’s transit through the sign of Libra, and the 24-hour window of time when the day and night are of equal length, just before the northern hemisphere begins its descent into the darker half of the year.
This is a most magical time as we celebrate the changing of the seasons! The leaves begin to turn from green to yellow, red and brown and the air begins to feel crisp and cool. The preparation of comfort foods such as homemade breads, pies, cakes, and stews fill the air with the most delicious aromas. As the earth slows down, she invites us to slow down too. Turn down the lights, grab a little treat and light some candles. In the dim light of the amber glow of the room, you can’t help but to take a deep breath, let it out, give thanks, relax, and reconnect.
Mabon celebrations vary, but the common themes are balance, reflection, community, and gratitude. Some celebrate by quietly reflecting on their personal journeys, evaluating the past year’s achievements and challenges. Others by participating in rituals and group activities wherein everyone enjoys a prepared feast of homemade dishes, desserts and seasonal produce which symbolizes the bounty of the “harvest” and the interconnectedness of life.
Mabon invites us to embrace the shift from summer’s exuberant energy to the quieter, more introspective phase of autumn. In modern times, we often forget that nature is not separate from us; it flows through us. By acknowledging this special day, we honor our humanity and our connection to the Earth’s cycles. As we align our mind, body, and spirit with nature’s rhythms, we recognize the significance of both light and dark in our lives, as well as the many shades of gray that exist between them.
A few meaningful ways you can celebrate Mabon are:
Create an altar: Set up an altar in your home with autumn themed items such as apples, pumpkins, fall leaves, twinkle lights, wheat, flowers, herbs, food offerings, acorns, earth-colored candles, a cauldron, incense burner, statues, crystals, etc.
Perform a candle ritual. Some theme ideas are: balance, letting go/release, gratitude, prosperity, abundance, peaceful home, good health, and protection.
Find a public group or community that is having a Mabon celebration and ask to join. I suggest you check with your local metaphysical stores first as they may be having events or will be able to guide you to reputable sources.
Support your local community by shopping at a small business and leaving a positive review if you enjoyed your experience.
Prepare a meal and share your harvest with those you care about, or pamper yourself as you enjoy a quiet evening at home with a tasty treat!
Journal and reflect on the past year. What you’ve accomplished, the lessons you’ve learned and what you are grateful for.
Go out in nature to appreciate the changing seasons. While you are out, mindfully collect natural items for your altar such as branches, feathers, pinecones, stones, etc. You can also leave offerings for the nature spirits. Be sure any foods that you put out are safe and healthy for wildlife to consume.
Honor the earth by planting a tree, tending to your garden, participating in a local clean-up effort, or volunteering at an animal shelter. If you don’t have time to volunteer, consider making a small donation.
Happy Mabon & Autumn Equinox everyone!
Christine Mann (Fire Moon Alchemy) is a gifted intuitive that specializes in tarot, astrology & numerology. She is available for private readings and public & private events. She can be contacted through her website: www.firemoonalchemy.com.