It’s that time of year once again . . . our days in the northern hemisphere are shorter, while those of you living in the southern hemisphere are moving into your spring season. There are several traditions celebrated around the globe to mark this passing of one season into another. 

In North America, many celebrate Halloween on October 31st. Children dress up in costumes (and some adults, too!) and join others in a festival or an in-home party. Most often, the children will go door-to-door to collect treats and sweets. (Trick or Treat, anyone?)

I love studying other traditions and cultures. And this time of year is certainly one of my favorites. The Celtic celebration of Samhain (most commonly pronounced sow-ween) on October 31st marks the end of one year and the birthing of another. Remember, the Celtics saw time as circular with one step leading to the next and bringing it all back ‘round again. It also marked the end of their good weather and the celebration of their harvest; and it was a time when they honored their dead.

How do you mark this passage of time? I know that for me, I tend to take longer walks and spend more quiet time out in nature. Perhaps that is because we’ve just finished with our hot, steamy summers and being outdoors for too long is often not as enjoyable in the late summer months. So now, the air is crisper, the humidity is lower, and the temps are falling.

Recently, I spent a lovely 3 hours walking a nature trail with a few friends, enjoying the sights, taking some pictures and really, just being in the moment. The effect was like having a mini-vacation – and it was a great reminder to enjoy the beauty and bounty that surrounds me. 

In what ways do you acknowledge your blessings and the bounty that has come your way? No matter how down on our luck or how bleak things may appear, there are always areas of our life for which we can be grateful. Perhaps it’s enough to be thankful for the roof over our heads or that we have our health. What else comes to mind for you?

Use this time to bring some calm into your life and to truly take in the goodness that surrounds you. Having trouble with this idea? Here is a F’REE GIFT from me – an easy worksheet to help you bring your focus onto the celebrations in your life.

Reflect on your summer . . . welcome in the fall . . . celebrate your abundance.

P.S. Have you had your root beer float yet? This is another tradition in my household as a fun way to celebrate the autumnal equinox (this year it was Sept 23rd). It’s never too late to celebrate!