Autumn, for many, is the most wonderful time of the year. It is a time when the earth is shifting and preparing for the darkness of winter, but how do we, as spiritual beings, embrace this time of transformation? There are many ways to celebrate autumn and Samhain, the witch's new year. Let's talk about a few of them.
The first is fairly obvious and easy for most: make an autumn or Samhain altar. For this, you'll need a flat surface that isn't a dumping ground for other things. Your altar is sacred and should be treated as such. For a simple autumn altar, you can use autumnal colors such as red, orange, and brown; incorporate natural elements such as fallen leaves, pine cones, and twigs; or use autumnal foods and flowers such as pumpkins and marigolds. For a simple Samhain altar, you can use any color that resonates with your or your ancestors (I usually stick to black,) and include photographs, offerings, and sentimental items. This is also an excellent time to break out those cards! Decks that suit this time of year include The Southern Gothic Oracle + HAUNTS expansion pack, The Southern Botanic Oracle + POISONS expansion pack, and Roses, Dust & Ashes.
Another easily accessible activity to celebrate the season is to go for a nature walk. Take a few deep breaths and allow yourself to wander in nature. If you don't have any readily accessible trails, take a trip around your neighborhood or local park and simply notice how nature is changing around you. Take it all in and think about how you are changing as well.
The final activity that I like to do to celebrate autumn is making something delicious! Whether it's a bubbling soup, spicy cup of tea, or a steaming brew of coffee, there's always something deliciously warm to be had during autumn. You can both consume these things or leave them as an offering on your altar or out of doors for nature spirits.