autumn: reflection and Harvest
Autumn is a time of gathering, reflection, and preparation as the earth begins to wind down for winter. Your family’s rhythm during this season can include more structured activities focused on harvest and gratitude. Mornings can start with a nature walk, where children gather leaves, acorns, or pinecones for seasonal crafts like wreath-making or leaf rubbings. This is also a great time to introduce more baking and cooking into your rhythm, celebrating the harvest with meals that incorporate seasonal produce, and making family traditions around canning or baking bread together.
As the days grow shorter, afternoons can be dedicated to storytelling and creating cozy spaces indoors. Autumn’s energy encourages a slower pace, so integrate moments of reflection, such as sharing what each family member is grateful for at the end of the day. This is also a wonderful season to introduce candlelight during meals or bedtime, signaling the shift from light to darkness and preparing the family rhythm for the quieter, more restful season of winter.
Festivals
1. Michaelmas (September 29): A festival of strength and courage, often symbolized by the story of St. Michael and the dragon.
2. Harvest Festival (late September or October): Celebrating the abundance of the harvest with community feasts and gratitude rituals.
3. Martinmas (November 11): Honoring St. Martin and the act of giving, often celebrated with lantern walks and acts of kindness.
4. Autumn Equinox (September 22-23): Marking the transition into darker days and inviting balance and reflection.
Activities
1. Lantern making: Crafting lanterns from paper or natural materials to prepare for Martinmas or lantern walks.
2. Baking and cooking: Preparing seasonal recipes like pumpkin soup, bread, or apple pies to celebrate the harvest.
3. Nature walks to gather fall treasures: Collecting acorns, pinecones, and colorful leaves for seasonal crafts or nature tables.
4. Storytelling: Reading or telling harvest-themed or courageous tales like those of St. Michael or St. Martin.
5. Gratitude journaling or rituals: Reflecting on the abundance of the season and sharing gratitude around the dinner table.
