Celebrating Mabon

​Yesterday  my oldest daughter reminded me I used to say  "the only one who likes change is  a wet baby." That was before I started 'collecting firsts', opening my heart and mind to new experiences and actively seeking change. I love  it! Variety is truly the spice of life!
The end of summer is marked by the Autumnal Equinox and Mabon, which begins on September 21 , 2020. Summer is delightful, but I don't want it  to  go  on forever. I'd find it difficult  to live in a place with no change in seasons. I guess if I had never experienced them, I might not think about it. But having enjoyed their unique  beauty and variety, I look forward to each one. 
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Colors of Mabon

The colors of Mabon include many of  my favorites - shades of orange, gold, red, burgundy and browns. As the leaves  change here in the north eastern part of the United States, we will watch the colors gradually unfold until they crescendo. Even after they pass their peak, they are still breathtaking, with more muted and metallic tones. I once heard leaves are the only  thing that gets  more beautiful right before death. 
Decorate your home and wear colors in these glorious shades. If you're an artist, create a painting with the warm, vibrant shades of Mabon. Or pick a favorite color and look for it as you go  about  your day. 
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Marigolds

Sage

Herbs of Mabon

Herbs, defined by herbalists  as "any plant that is useful", are abundant during Mabon. Some most traditionally associated with the season are acorns, apples, barley, carrots, chamomile, corn, marigolds, onions, pomegranates, rosemary, sage, walnuts and wheat. Harvest some of the herbs from your garden or look for them at farmer's markets or garden centers. Combine them to make a still life, bouquet, wreath or swag, to celebrate this second harvest. 
The sun moved from Virgo to Libra on September 22, and I will be adding at least one of Libra's zodiac herbs, so stayed tuned!
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Stones of Mabon

In addition to the colors and herbs, there are also stones for those of you familiar with  the power of  gemstones. And if you aren't familiar, you may want to spend time around them and see which ones catch your attention! There's a reason! 
Amber, in  shades  of orange, golds, yellows and browns, will warm and delight! Yellow agate, cat's eye, hematite, jasper and topaz are also associated with this  time of  year. 
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Activities for Mabon

In addition to the ideas mentioned about you might also want to

• Make a gratitude list.
• Compare this year and the same time last year with columns labeled Same and Different. Then consider what is valuable and what isn't working. Make changes as needed. Last year I did an ABCs of Autumn list. This year, it is very different. 
• Light candles or have a bonfire to create an atmosphere to enhance meditation.
• Take a walk in a park, garden, forest, etc., to celebrate nature.
• Pay attention to the blessings and beauty of the season. Take a deep breath and be mindful of the moment.

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Wishing you all a blessed harvest.