Spring Equinox - 7 ways Ostara is celebrated
Can you feel that spring is in the air? That is if you live in the northern hemisphere. Here we can enjoy that the birds are chirping, the grass is getting greener, and the trees are growing buds. Should you live in the southern hemisphere, you can perhaps sense that falls is on its way.
However, what is common for this Equinox, is that day and night are nearly equal in length. In the northern hemisphere, the Spring Equinox falls between March 19th to 21st every year. And in the southern hemisphere, this is when the Fall Equinox takes place.
Did you know that the date of Easter is determined by the Spring Equinox? Easter falls on the Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox.
The Spring Equinox is also known as the Ostara, named after the goddess Eostre. She is believed to represent dawn, fertility, renewal, and rebirth. Our Easter traditions is influenced by the equinox. We decorate with eggs and hares which are known as fertility symbols.
Spring is all about new beginnings. Nature has shed what was needed during fall and winter so that renewal and rebirth can happen. And whilst nature itself does not question this at all, we humans often have difficulties letting go.
But there will be no forever unless there is change. Change is the only constant in the equation of life.
Photo by Martin Dawson
Decorating eggs, much like Easter traditions in many countries
Celebrating with hares and rabbits which are animals linked to fertility and the goddess Ostara. If you have an altar you might put a rabbit statue on it. Decorating with hares and rabbits is also an Easter tradition in many countries
Decorations at home, with flowers, seeds, pastel colors, and symbols of the sun to welcome spring’s energy. Oh, hello, daffodils!
Planting seeds indoors and getting ready for the new season to come by growing your greens.
Lighting candles in yellow or green colors which represent the return of warmth and light.
Outdoor rituals and nature walks to honor the balance between day and night. Light a bonfire and watch the sunset whilst you welcome the new season.
Spring cleaning, both physical and spiritual clearing out. Out with the old energy and make way for new beginnings. What are you ready to leave behind so you can make way for new projects in your life?
Wherever you are in the world today, welcome the new season which lies ahead of you. Honor the balance between light and dark.
