Seasonal Musings

Nourishment from Nature to Nurture Your Skin Through the Cold Months

As winter wraps her cool hands around us here in the southern hemisphere, our skin begins to cry-out for deeper care. The wind is sharper, the air drier, and the warmth of the fire doesn’t always reach the surface of our skin the way we need it to. These can play havoc with our skin.

Just like we shift our diet and routines with the seasons, our skin deserves the same attention.

Winter is a time to slow down, to go inward, and to nourish deeply — and our skin care should reflect that. Below is a gentle ritual you can adopt to tend to your skin through the colder months, using the wisdom of plant allies and the quiet magic of seasonal rhythm.

Step 1: Cleanse with Kindness

Start with a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip your natural oils. Oil cleansing is a beautiful practice in winter. Try jojoba or calendula-infused oil to melt away the day without disrupting your skin barrier. Massage in slow circles, breathe deeply, and let this be more than just washing — let it be a moment of stillness.

Herbal Ally: Chamomile — infused into your oil or used as a warm facial steam, it softens skin and soothes winter tightness.

Step 2: Exfoliate the Past

Dry, flaky skin is a common winter tale. A gentle exfoliation 1–2 times a week will slough off the old and invite in the new. Think oats, ground almonds, or soft herbal powders like marshmallow root or rose petals. Always follow with hydration.

Herbal Ally: Rose — tenderly astringent and emotionally uplifting, she helps your skin and your spirit bloom again.

But exfoliation isn’t just about smooth skin — it’s about movement. By gently removing dead skin cells, you’re helping to unclog pores, improve product absorption, and stimulate surface circulation. This increased blood flow helps bring nutrients to the skin while encouraging the release of built-up toxins.

One of the most powerful (and often forgotten) tools during winter is dry body brushing. Using a natural bristle brush before bathing not only supports skin exfoliation but also activates the lymphatic system — our body’s inner river of immunity. Brushing in gentle, upward strokes toward the heart helps move stagnant lymph, support detox pathways, and energise the immune response. Especially in the colder months when we tend to move less and layer more, dry brushing is a beautiful way to awaken both the skin and the systems beneath it.

Think of it as sweeping out the cobwebs — physically and energetically.

Step 3: Hydrate Like You Mean It

Swap your light lotions for nourishing creams or balms. This is the season for thickness, for staying power. Creams rich in shea butter, calendula, or rosehip oil are ideal. Layer a hydrosol like orange blossom or rose underneath for extra hydration.

Herbal Ally: Calendula — our golden winter guardian, soothing inflammation, restoring elasticity, and honouring sensitive skin.

Step 4: Weekly Masking Ritual

Once a week, gift yourself a mask. Think of it as a skin ceremony. Mix powdered clay or herbs with honey, yogurt, or aloe. Let your skin drink in the nourishment while you rest, reflect, and reset.

Witchy Tip: Do your masking on a waning moon to help draw impurities and release what no longer serves.

Step 5: Lip + Hand Love

Our lips and hands brave the elements more than most. Keep a balm close — one made with beeswax, calendula, comfrey, or chamomile. Use it throughout the day and before bed. A hand massage with warming oils like ginger, rosemary, or cinnamon can do wonders for circulation and winter ache.

🌿 Winter Warming Massage Oil

Supports dry winter skin, eases cold-weather aches, and boosts circulation

Ingredients:

• 50ml sweet almond oil (or jojoba, olive, or fractionated coconut)
• 10 drops ginger essential oil
• 6 drops rosemary essential oil
• 4 drops lavender essential oil
• Optional: 5ml vitamin E oil (preserves and nourishes)

Instructions:

1. In a clean glass bottle, add your carrier oil.
2. Drop in each essential oil and shake gently to combine.
3. Store in a cool, dark place.
4. To use: Warm a small amount between your palms and massage into hands, feet, or any sore areas. Breathe in deeply as you go.

🌙 Ritual Tips:

• Use after a warm bath or foot soak for extra absorption and comfort.
• Massage in slow, circular movements — especially around joints or areas prone to stiffness.
• Best used in the evening or after time outdoors to bring warmth and circulation back to the body.

Cautions:
Avoid during pregnancy and keep away from sensitive areas or broken skin. Always patch test essential oils before full use.

Step 6: Internal Skin Support

Skin care isn’t just what you put on — it’s what you sip, eat, and feel. Herbal teas like nettle, red clover, and rose support lymph, hydration, and hormonal balance. Don’t forget omega-rich foods (hello flax and chia), bone broth, and plenty of clean water, even when it’s cold.

Suggested Daily Winter Skin Tea Blend

🌿 Nettle
🌿 Calendula
🌿 Red clover
🌿 Rose petals
🌿 A dash of cinnamon or a slice of fresh ginger

Infuse for 10+ minutes. Sip with intention.

Final Thoughts

This winter, let your skin care be a ritual — not a routine. A moment to connect, breathe, and honour the quiet power of nature, even in the cold. The plants are here to support you. And your skin, like your spirit, thrives when tended to with love and presence.

Winter Wellness with Herbs, Nutrition & Rituals

Nurture Your Body & Soul Through the Cold Season

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, winter invites us to slow down, rest deeply, and tend to our inner fire. But with the beauty of the season also comes increased vulnerability—colds, flus, low mood, and sluggish digestion can creep in if we don’t give ourselves the care we truly need. Let’s explore how we can stay resilient and vibrant this winter with the support of herbs, nourishing food, and daily rituals.

Herbal Allies for Winter

Nature offers powerful plant allies that help keep our immune systems strong, lungs clear, and spirits lifted.

1. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra):
A trusted winter immune tonic, elderberry is antiviral and rich in antioxidants. Perfect as a syrup, tea, or tincture at the first signs of a cold.

2. Echinacea (E. purpurea / E. angustifolia):
Best used short-term at the onset of illness, echinacea supports immune responsiveness and lymphatic drainage.

3. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris):
A powerful antimicrobial and lung tonic. Add to teas for coughs, or infuse into honey for sore throats.

4. Ginger (Zingiber officinale):
Warming, stimulating, and gut-friendly. Ginger improves circulation and digestion—perfect for chilly days.

5. Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus):
A deep immune builder and adaptogen. Use it long-term in broths or decoctions to fortify the body’s defences.

6. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra):
Soothes irritated throats, supports adrenal health, and enhances herbal synergy. Use with care in those with high blood pressure.

Winter Nutrition: Eat to Thrive

In Traditional Medicine systems, winter is a time to turn inward and focus on nourishing the kidneys, building blood, and conserving energy. Choose warm, slow-cooked meals that support digestion and immunity.

Best Winter Foods:

• Bone broths and slow-cooked soups

• Root vegetables (sweet potato, beetroot, carrots)

• Warming grains (oats, brown rice, barley)

• Seaweed and mineral-rich greens

• Fermented foods (kimchi, sauerkraut) to support gut health

• Garlic, onion, and mushrooms (especially shiitake and reishi)

Winter Tip: Add warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and turmeric to meals and drinks to stoke your inner fire.

Lifestyle & Rituals for Seasonal Wellness

1. Rest Deeply
Winter is nature’s invitation to hibernate. Honour your need for sleep and quiet time. Create a slow evening ritual—dim the lights, sip herbal tea, and wind down early.

2. Stay Warm
Keep your body covered and warm, especially your kidneys, feet, and neck. Warming baths with ginger, rosemary, or eucalyptus oils can support circulation and immunity.

3. Move Gently
You don’t need intense workouts—opt for gentle movement like walking, stretching, or yoga to keep the lymph flowing and spirits high.

4. Daily Immune Rituals:

• Neti pot or steam inhalation for nasal health
  

• Herbal teas or tinctures daily

• Vitamin D supplementation or morning sun exposure

• Consider a multi-vitamin if you feel your diet is lacking at this time of year.

5. Emotional Wellness
Winter can stir feelings of sadness or isolation. Reach out, tend to your inner world, journal by candlelight, and connect with your breath. Herbal allies like St. John’s Wort, lemon balm, or rosemary may support mood and mental clarity.

Winter Wellness Tea Blend

Herbal Tea for Immune Support & Warmth

• 2 parts Elderberry

• 1 part Ginger root

• 1 part Licorice root

• 1 part Thyme

• ½ part Cinnamon chips
  Infuse 1–2 tsp per cup, steep 10–15 minutes, strain, and sip throughout the day.

Optional: add a spoon of raw honey and a squeeze of lemon for extra support.

Winter Wellness Herbal Bone Broth

A deeply nourishing base for soups, sipping, and winter rituals.

Ingredients:

Bone base:

• 1–2kg organic beef, lamb, or chicken bones (marrow, knuckle, neck, wings, or feet are great)

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (helps extract minerals from the bones)

• Water to cover (approx. 3–4L)

Vegetables (roughly chopped):

• 2 carrots

• 2 celery stalks

• 1 onion

• 3 garlic cloves

Herbs & spices:

• 2 slices fresh ginger

• 1 tsp whole peppercorns

• 1–2 bay leaves

• 1–2 tsp sea salt (optional)

Optional nourishing additions:

• Blend of medicinal mushrooms

• 2 tbsp dried nettle leaf (iron, minerals)

• 1 tbsp astragalus root (immune support)

• 1 tsp turmeric or a few slices of fresh

• A sprig of rosemary or thyme

Instructions:

1. Roast bones (optional but flavourful):
   Place bones in a roasting pan at 180°C (350°F) for 30–40 minutes until browned.

2. Combine all ingredients in a large stockpot or slow cooker. Cover with cold water and bring to a gentle boil.

3. Skim the foam off the top, then reduce heat to a very low simmer.

4. Simmer low and slow for:

   • Chicken: 12–24 hours

   • Beef/Lamb: 24–48 hours
     (Or 8 hours in a pressure cooker if you're short on time.)

5. Strain well. Discard solids or compost them. Store broth in glass jars in the fridge (up to 5 days) or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

How to Use:

• Sip warm with a pinch of salt and squeeze of lemon

• Use as a base for soups, stews, and risottos

• Freeze into ice cube trays for quick use in meals

• Blend with a spoon of miso paste for a probiotic-rich winter elixir

Herbal Add-Ons by Need:

• For immune health: astragalus, garlic, thyme, reishi

• For gut repair: slippery elm (added after cooking), chamomile tea added at serving

• For energy & blood building: nettle, parsley, dandelion root

Final Thoughts

Winter doesn't have to mean illness or stagnation. With the right herbs, nourishing meals, and a few gentle rituals, it can become a sacred season of restoration and renewal. Take this time to care for your body, replenish your energy, and reconnect with your deeper rhythms.

“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” —Albert Camus

 For herbal support during the Winter- pop over here and check out what's available!

References – Winter Wellness Blog

1. Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Healing Arts Press.
   – Detailed monographs on echinacea, elderberry, ginger, astragalus, licorice, and thyme.

2. Bone, K., & Mills, S. (2013). Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine. Elsevier Health Sciences.
   – Evidence-based therapeutic uses and formulations for immune support and winter-related conditions.

3. Chevallier, A. (2001). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. DK Publishing.
   – Traditional and current uses of herbs like ginger, licorice, thyme, elderberry, and nettle.

4. Ulbricht, C., Basch, E., & et al. (2009). Natural Standard Herb & Supplement Handbook: The Clinical Bottom Line. Mosby.
   – Safety and efficacy data on elderberry, astragalus, and echinacea.

5. Barak, V., et al. (2002). "The effect of herbal remedies on the production of human inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines." Israel Medical Association Journal, 4(11 Suppl), 919–922.
   – Focus on echinacea, astragalus, and immune modulation.

6. Zakay-Rones, Z., Thom, E., Wollan, T., & Wadstein, J. (2004). "Randomized study of the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections." The Journal of International Medical Research, 32(2), 132–140.
   – Clinical study on elderberry and flu recovery.

7. Langner, E., Greifenberg, S., & Gruenwald, J. (1998). "Ginger: history and use." Advances in Therapy, 15(1), 25–44.
   – Review of ginger’s digestive, warming, and circulatory effects.

8. Zhou, Y., et al. (2013). "Astragalus membranaceus: A review of its protection against inflammation and gastrointestinal cancers." The American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 41(6), 1083–1101.
   – Immune and gut-supportive benefits of astragalus.

9. National Institute of Health – MedlinePlus
   – Monographs for individual herbs: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/herb_All.html

10. American Herbal Pharmacopoeia (AHP). Monographs on individual herbs including echinacea, elderberry, ginger, and licorice.

Full Moon in Scorpio – The Depths Call Us Home

Also known as the Full Flower Moon

The Full Moon in Scorpio arrives cloaked in mystery, power, and transformation. Scorpio is the zodiac’s alchemist—forever seeking to peel back the layers, expose the hidden, and rise anew. This moon doesn’t play on the surface—it plunges us deep into emotional truths, encouraging surrender, release, and rebirth.

Scorpio, ruled by Pluto, governs the realms of the psyche, sexuality, power, and the shadow self. With the moon full in this sign, it’s time to face what we’ve repressed—be it fear, desire, grief, or truth. Expect heightened emotions, intuitive surges, and the sudden need to shed what no longer fits. You might feel raw—but there is great wisdom in this unearthing.

Key Energies of the Scorpio Full Moon – In Depth

The Scorpio Full Moon is not a surface event—it’s an initiation. This is a moon of intensity, truth, and emotional rebirth. Its energies run deep, uncovering what has been hidden and stirring the waters of the subconscious. Let’s take a closer look at what this means:

Shadow Integration

Scorpio governs the unseen and the unspoken. Under this moon, buried emotions, patterns, or memories may rise to the surface. Shadow integration isn’t about banishing darkness—it’s about meeting it with compassion, understanding its roots, and reclaiming the parts of yourself you've denied. This moon asks: What truth are you ready to face?

Sacred Endings & Karmic Closures

Full moons are always a time of culmination—but when in Scorpio, this is amplified. Relationships, habits, beliefs, or versions of yourself that have outlived their purpose may begin to unravel. This is a beautiful time to grieve, honour, and release with intention. Endings are sacred under this moon—they clear the path for rebirth.

Energetic Cleansing & Protection

Scorpio energy is magnetically sensitive. If you’ve been absorbing the moods or energies of others, this moon is the moment to clear your field. Cleanse with smoke, salt, herbs, or water. Reclaim your energy. Scorpio reminds us that boundaries are not walls—they are sacred spaces of self-respect.

Emotional & Sensual Reclamation

Scorpio rules both the emotional and sexual realms. This moon may awaken longings—for connection, for healing, for expression. Allow yourself to feel deeply, move slowly, and reconnect with your body. Whether through dance, rest, ritual, or intimacy, this is a powerful time to reclaim your sensual power without shame.

Heightened Intuition & Psychic Awareness

This moon pierces the veil. Dreams may become more vivid, synchronicities more frequent, and gut feelings impossible to ignore. Scorpio sharpens the senses that logic often overlooks. Trust your inner knowing. Ritual, meditation, and ancestral connection are especially potent now.

Lunar Reflection Prompts

• What am I holding onto that is rotting in the dark?

• Where am I afraid to own my power or truth?

• What is ready to die so I can be reborn?

This is not a moon of logic—it’s a moon of knowing. Sink into your intuition. Breathe into your bones. Let it guide you.

Herbal Allies for the Scorpio Full Moon

Scorpio rules the reproductive system and is associated with the water element, psychic sensitivity, and detoxification. Herbal allies for this moon should support emotional healing, energetic cleansing, and reproductive or circulatory health.

Recommended Herbs:

• Mugwort – A potent dream and ritual herb for intuition, spirit connection, and moon work

• Motherwort – Calms anxious hearts, eases emotional overwhelm, and supports sacred feminine energy

• Hawthorn – Gentle heart healer for grief, endings, and heartbreak

• Damiana – For sensual reconnection, emotional healing through the body, and heart-opening

• Yarrow – Energetic protector and deep wound healer, for both physical and emotional boundaries

• Burdock Root – Deep liver and blood cleanser, great for shadow integration and detox support

Full Moon Tea Blend – “Depth & Release”

A tea to support emotional cleansing, grounded release, and heart protection during shadow work.

Ingredients (dried):

• 1 part Hawthorn berries

• 1 part Mugwort

• 1 part Lemon Balm

• ½ part Damiana

• ½ part Yarrow

• A few rose petals (for heart-softening and ritual)

Instructions:
Blend herbs and steep 1 tsp per cup in hot water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and sip in silence, preferably by candlelight. Journal or meditate afterward.

🛈 Avoid mugwort during pregnancy. Damiana and yarrow should be used with caution in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions.

Scorpio Moon Rituals

1. Burn What You’re Done With
Write down emotions, attachments, relationships, or patterns you are ready to release. Burn them in a fire-safe dish under the full moon with intention.

2. Moonlit Bath Soak
Create a Scorpio soak using Epsom salts, dried rose, yarrow, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Add a few drops of essential oils (like patchouli or clary sage) and soak in silence or while listening to sacred music.

3. Sacred Mirror Work
Stand before a mirror under moonlight or candlelight. Speak truth to yourself. What do you see in your own eyes? What power is waiting there?

4. Womb or Sacral Healing Meditation
Scorpio rules the reproductive organs. Lie down, place your hands on your womb or sacral area, and breathe. Invite release, healing, and forgiveness into this space.

Affirmations for the Scorpio Full Moon

“I shed the old and rise transformed.”
“I am not afraid of the dark—I am made of it.”
“I embrace endings as sacred beginnings.”
“My emotions are wise. My transformation is powerful.”

Final Thoughts – Death, Rebirth & Power

This Scorpio Full Moon is not for the faint-hearted—but for those willing to feel, it offers radical healing. Let what needs to fall away, fall. Let what wants to rise, rise. This is the moon of the phoenix—the sacred death that makes space for new life.

Stay close to your breath. Trust your intuition. You are not broken—you are breaking through.

New Moon in Taurus- The Earth Listens – So Plant Your Dreams

The New Moon in Taurus arrives on April 28th under a sky humming with fertile, grounded energy. Taurus, the first Earth sign of the zodiac, invites us to root down, slow down, and align ourselves with tangible, steady growth.

While new moons always symbolize fresh starts, the Taurus New Moon offers a very particular kind of rebirth: one that is sensual, patient, deliberate, and abundant. It is a time to plant seeds — both physical and spiritual — and trust in their slow but certain unfolding.

This is the Moon to tend to your body, your finances, your home, and your inner sanctuary. It's about committing to the long game, trusting in nature's slow wisdom, and honouring the quiet power of perseverance.

The Energy of This New Moon- Plant with intention. Grow with patience. Harvest with trust.

Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty, pleasure, and values. Under this influence, you may feel a deeper longing for stability, comfort, and security — but also for sensory pleasures like delicious meals, soft textures, music, gardens, and sweet-smelling air.

Questions to reflect on during this New Moon:

• Where do I crave more stability and security?
• What seeds am I ready to plant for lasting abundance?
• How can I slow down and truly savour life’s simple pleasures?
• What do I value most deeply — and am I living in alignment with those values?

This is also a wonderful Moon to set intentions around money, health, creativity, land, home, and self-worth.

Herbal Allies for the Taurus New Moon

Taurus energy resonates with herbs that nourish, ground, and strengthen — especially those connected to the Earth and ruled by Venus.

Key Herbal Allies:

• Rose (Rosa spp.): Opens the heart, soothes emotional wounds, and invites love and beauty.
• Violet (Viola odorata): Gently detoxifying and heart-softening; fosters emotional healing.
• Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis): Moisturizing and calming, symbolizing nourishment at a deep level.
• Nettle (Urtica dioica): Strengthens and fortifies, teaching resilience and respect for boundaries.
• Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.): Supports the heart both physically and emotionally; excellent for tending your inner sanctuary.
• Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): Encourages courage, healthy boundaries, and patience.

Herbal Ritual Ideas:

• A New Moon Tea of nettle, violet, and rose to call in healing and abundance.
• A bath soak with rose petals, thyme, and a pinch of sea salt to refresh and protect your spirit.
• An altar offering of fresh herbs or flowers to Venus, asking for her blessing on your new seeds.

New Moon Herbal Tea Recipe – "Roots of Abundance"

This nourishing blend honours the slow, steady, and sensual energy of Taurus.
Perfect for sipping during your New Moon rituals or grounding meditations.

Ingredients:

• 1 part Nettle leaf (strength, nourishment, resilience)
• 1 part Violet leaf (emotional healing, heart-opening)
• 1 part Rose petals (love, beauty, Venus connection)
• ½ part Marshmallow root (soothing, grounding)
• ½ part Thyme (courage, patience)

Instructions:

1. Blend your herbs together and store in a glass jar.
2. To brew, use about 1 heaping tablespoon of the blend per cup of hot water.
3. Steep covered for 10–15 minutes.
4. Strain and sip mindfully, breathing deeply between sips.
   (If you like, sweeten with a touch of raw honey.)

Ritual Tip:
Hold your cup in both hands before drinking. Whisper your New Moon intentions into the steam, visualizing them taking root in your life.

Ritual Ideas for the Taurus New Moon

1. Plant Real Seeds
If possible, physically plant something under this New Moon — even if it’s just a pot of herbs on your windowsill. As the plant grows, so too will your intentions.

2. Prosperity Jar Spell
Create a small jar filled with herbs like basil, thyme, cinnamon, and coins or crystals (like green aventurine or citrine). Hold the jar in your hands and speak your abundance intentions aloud. Seal it with green wax if you wish, and keep it somewhere safe.

3. Sensory Grounding Practice
Take a mindful walk in nature — barefoot if you can — and use all five senses to anchor yourself in the present moment. Taurus reminds us that slow presence is the gateway to real magic.

4. Sacred Self-Worth Ritual
Light a candle and write down what you love about yourself, focusing on your values, not your achievements.
Read it aloud to yourself under the New Moon, sealing it into your heart with gratitude.

Taurus New Moon Intentions

Intentions for this New Moon should be solid, slow-building, and sensual. Think less about quick wins and more about long-term flourishing.

Sample Intentions:

• “I welcome abundant, steady income aligned with my values.”
• “I honour my body as my sacred home, nurturing it with love and patience.”
• “I open my life to beauty, simplicity, and joy.”
• “I trust in slow, sustainable growth.”
• “I build a life of comfort, stability, and deep self-worth.”

Final Thoughts

The New Moon in Taurus reminds us that growth is a living, breathing, sensual process. It cannot be rushed. It must be nurtured with patience, love, and unwavering faith.

By tending to your dreams with the same care you would offer a tender sprout, you honour the ancient wisdom of Earth herself — and you open yourself to the richest harvests yet to come. 🌿🌙

Full Moon in Libra – A Time to Rebalance, Reconnect & Reflect

As the Full Moon rises in the airy sign of Libra, we are offered a sacred pause — a moment to realign with harmony, beauty, and the delicate balance between self and other. Libra, ruled by Venus, governs our relationships, our sense of justice, and the quiet, persistent desire for peace. Under this moon’s glow, we’re invited to re-centre our hearts and gently release what’s tipping our internal scales.

The Energy of Libra: Harmony, Beauty & Boundaries

Libra teaches us that balance isn’t about perfection — it’s about flow. The balance between rest and action, giving and receiving, speaking and listening, holding on and letting go. Under this Full Moon, you may feel called to assess your boundaries, particularly in relationships. Where are you over-extending? Where have you closed off?

This is the moon of the peacemaker, but also the truth-seeker. Libra encourages diplomacy and compassion, but not at the cost of self-abandonment. Now is the time to recalibrate — not just your relationships with others, but your relationship with your own needs and inner world.

Full Moon Ritual Ideas

If you’re drawn to work ceremonially with this moon, here are some simple but potent ways to honour the energy of Libra:

Moon Bath or Tea Ceremony

Brew a gentle, heart-centred tea blend using:

• Hawthorn (for emotional resilience and heart healing)
• Rose petals (for self-love, compassion, and opening the heart)
• Lemon balm or chamomile (for nervous system support and clarity)

Sip mindfully, under the moonlight if possible, while journaling or meditating on where you need more balance in your life. Tea recipe below.

Release + Reclaim Ritual

1. Write down what you’re ready to let go of — habits, thought patterns, or relationships that no longer serve you.
2. Burn the paper safely in a fireproof vessel, offering the release to the moon.
3. Follow it by writing a reclaiming list: What are you calling back in? Peace? Sovereignty? Connection? Let that intention fill your space.

Mirror Work for Self-Love

Libra’s Venusian energy reminds us to tend to beauty — not just externally, but the radiance of our inner self. Spend a few quiet moments looking at yourself in a mirror, not to critique, but to witness. Speak kindly. Offer your reflection the love you so often give others.

Herbal Allies for the Libra Full Moon

These plants carry the vibration of Libra’s energy — gentle, heart-opening, and harmonizing:

• Hawthorn: Strengthens the heart (physically + emotionally), supports grief and helps establish healthy boundaries.
• Rose: Encourages love, compassion, and emotional openness.
• Violet: Helps with emotional suppression, and supports courage in gentle truth-telling.
• Linden: Soothes tension and invites emotional softness.
• Chamomile: Calms the nervous system and supports clarity through overwhelm.

You may wish to incorporate these into teas, baths, incense blends, or altar offerings.

Full Moon in Libra Tea Blend 

A calming, heart-centred blend to sip during ritual, journaling, or quiet moon-gazing

Ingredients (dried herbs):

• 1 tsp Hawthorn berries and/or leaf & flower – supports emotional heart + circulation

• 1 tsp Rose petals – opens the heart, promotes love and softness

• 1 tsp Lemon balm – lifts the spirit, calms anxious thoughts

• ½ tsp Violet leaf/flower – soothes emotional tension, gentle lymphatic support

• ½ tsp Chamomile – calming, grounding, promotes restful clarity

Optional:

• A small pinch of Linden flower – adds sweetness and emotional ease

• A drizzle of honey (especially if using this blend as a ritual offering to Venus energies)

How to Prepare:

1. Combine all herbs in a teapot or jar.

2. Pour over about 2 cups of freshly boiled water.

3. Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.

4. Strain and sip slowly, ideally under moonlight or by candlelight.

Use in Ritual:
You can whisper intentions into your cup as it steeps — or write them down and place them beneath your mug. This tea is especially supportive when paired with journaling, mirror work, or heart-centred meditation.

Journal Prompts

Here are a few prompts to deepen your connection to this lunar energy:

• Where in my life do I feel out of balance?
• What relationships feel aligned — and which feel draining?
• What does peace feel like in my body? How can I cultivate more of it?
• What truth have I been avoiding that’s asking to be acknowledged under this moonlight?

Final Thoughts

This Full Moon in Libra is not about quick fixes or dramatic changes. It’s about the gentle recalibration that comes when we listen to the whisper of our intuition, honour our truth, and remember that peace begins within. Let this be a moment of softness — a return to centre, a rebalancing of your own sacred scales.

Wishing you a peaceful, heart-full Full Moon

The Autumn Equinox in the Southern Hemisphere marks a moment of perfect balance between day and night, occurring around March 20th or 21st. It signals a transition from the warmth of summer into the cool embrace of autumn, a time for reflection, introspection, and preparing for the quieter months ahead. Along with this celestial shift comes an opportunity to reconnect with nature, and certain herbs resonate with the energies of the season. In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of the Autumn Equinox and highlight herbs that can support your well-being during this transformative time.

1. What is the Autumn Equinox in the Southern Hemisphere?

In the Southern Hemisphere, the Autumn Equinox marks the official beginning of autumn. The equinox occurs when the Earth's axis is neither tilted toward nor away from the sun, resulting in equal lengths of day and night. This moment represents a shift in energy, from the active, expansive energy of summer to the more grounded, reflective energy of autumn.

During this time, the earth’s colours change—leaves turn gold and red, the weather cools, and the harvest season begins to peak. Cultures around the world celebrate the equinox with rituals of gratitude, reflection, and preparation for the quiet energy of the winter months. We will explore the Pagan meaning and rituals of Mabon of the Autumn Equinox below. Mabon is the Pagan festival that aligns with the Autumn Equinox, and it is a beautiful tradition. 

2. The Meaning of Balance

The Autumn Equinox symbolizes balance, a time when light and dark are in perfect harmony. This balance calls for reflection on the equilibrium in our own lives. As the energy of summer fades, we’re invited to slow down, become more introspective, and reflect on the year so far. It’s a time to honour what has been achieved and release what no longer serves us.

The equinox also represents a seasonal shift—a time of harvest, abundance, and letting go. It’s a chance to realign with our goals and intentions as we enter a quieter, more restorative period.

3. Herbs of the Autumn Equinox

Herbs have been used for centuries to help us align with the rhythms of nature. In the Southern Hemisphere, autumn is a time of transition, balance, and grounding, and certain herbs are perfect companions during this time. Here are some herbs that resonate with the energy of the Autumn Equinox:

1. Sage

Sage is often used for its cleansing and purification properties, which can be especially helpful during the equinox as we let go of old energies and prepare for the new season. Its earthy aroma is grounding and stabilizing, making it a perfect herb to help you release what no longer serves you.

How to Use: Burn dried sage as part of a cleansing ritual or brew sage tea to help with mental clarity and purification.

2. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a warming spice that adds a touch of heat as the cooler days of autumn settle in. It represents abundance and prosperity, making it an ideal herb to support you as you reflect on your harvest—both literal and metaphorical. Cinnamon also helps stimulate the circulatory system and balances energy levels.

How to Use: Add cinnamon to your favourite autumn beverages like tea, hot chocolate, or spiced cider for warmth and comfort.

3. Ginger

Ginger is a perfect herb to support your transition from the warmer months to the cooler autumn days. It’s known for its digestive benefits and can help with sluggish digestion that sometimes accompanies seasonal changes. Ginger is also great for grounding and warming, promoting a balanced energy during the shift.

How to Use: Add fresh ginger to your autumn soups, stews, or brew a cup of fresh ginger tea to settle your stomach and support digestion.

4. Chamomile

Chamomile is a gentle and soothing herb known for its ability to calm the nervous system. As the days get shorter and the nights longer, chamomile is excellent for promoting restful sleep and relaxation. Its mild sedative properties can help you slow down and prepare for the more introspective period of autumn.

How to Use: Brew chamomile tea before bed to encourage a peaceful night's sleep or add it to a calming bath.

5. Rosemary

Rosemary is a herb known for its clarity and ability to boost memory and focus. As autumn brings a more reflective energy, rosemary can help clear mental fog and enhance clarity, making it a great herb to support your meditation or mindfulness practices.

How to Use: Infuse rosemary into your cooking, or use it in an herbal tea to help with focus and mental clarity.

6. Apple

While not technically an herb, apples are deeply associated with autumn and represent health, abundance, and harvest. They’re the perfect embodiment of the season’s energy, reminding us to be grateful for what we’ve harvested and to nourish our bodies with seasonal fruits.

How to Use: Enjoy fresh apples or incorporate them into recipes like pies, crisps, or even homemade apple cider.

4. Rituals and Practices for the Autumn Equinox

The Autumn Equinox offers a chance to realign with the changing energies of the earth. Here are some practices to honour this time of balance and reflection:

• Harvest Ritual: Collect autumn herbs and seasonal produce, such as apples or squash, and arrange them on your altar or create a nature-inspired display of gratitude for the season's bounty.
• Candle Meditation: Light a candle to symbolize the balance of light and dark. Meditate on areas of your life that feel balanced and reflect on areas that may need more harmony.
• Gratitude Journal: Take time to write about the things you’re grateful for and set intentions for what you wish to manifest during the coming months. The equinox is a great time to plant seeds for the future.

5. Mabon: The Pagan Festival of the Autumn Equinox

Close to my heart are the Pagan traditions, and in Pagan traditions, the Autumn Equinox is celebrated as Mabon, one of the eight Sabbats in the Wheel of the Year. Mabon marks the second of three harvest festivals, the first being Lammas (Lughnasadh), and the last being Samhain. It’s a time to honour the balance of light and dark, and the harvest season, as well as give thanks for the abundance of the Earth.

Mabon is named after the Welsh God of the harvest, Mabon ap Modron, and is a celebration of the balance of energies, the turning of the wheel, and the acknowledgement of the equal distribution of daylight and night. This Sabbat represents the autumnal harvest, the shift into the darker months, and a time for deep gratitude for what has been gathered, both physically and spiritually.

Rituals and Celebrations of Mabon:

• Gratitude for the Harvest: Mabon is a time to celebrate the abundance of the Earth and give thanks for the food and resources provided. Pagans often hold a harvest feast, preparing dishes from seasonal fruits and vegetables like apples, squash, and root vegetables. It's a way to honour the cycle of life and death, as well as to show gratitude for what has been harvested throughout the year.
• Balance Ritual: Since Mabon is all about the balance of light and dark, Pagans often perform rituals that focus on balance in their lives. One popular Mabon ritual is a balancing meditation, where practitioners sit in quiet reflection, focusing on the equilibrium between inner and outer worlds, work and rest, light and shadow. This ritual helps participants align their energy and intentions with the season.
• Altar Decorations: Creating an altar to honour Mabon is a common practice among Pagans. Altar decorations typically include autumn leaves, acorns, grains, apples, and autumn flowers like chrysanthemums and marigolds. Candles representing the balance of light and dark are often used, with a particular emphasis on the harvest moon.
• Candle Rituals: Lighting a candle during Mabon is an important symbolic act. The candle represents the light of the sun, which has now begun to wane, and the balance between light and darkness. Some rituals include lighting a red, orange, or gold candle to represent the waning sun and the incoming darker days.
• Reflection and Intention Setting: Mabon is also a time for reflection on the year’s progress, letting go of anything that no longer serves you, and setting intentions for the coming months. The darker months are seen as a time for inner growth, self-care, and quiet reflection, so Mabon can be used as an opportunity to clear the way for new beginnings in the future. Journaling or speaking aloud intentions can be powerful during this time.
• Brew Mabon Tea or Cider: A fun and cozy ritual is making herbal teas or apple cider infused with seasonal herbs such as cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg. These can be enjoyed while reflecting on the seasonal changes and aligning yourself with the energy of Mabon.

6. Herbs for Mabon Rituals

To support your Mabon rituals, you can incorporate specific herbs that correspond with the energies of the season. These herbs promote balance, abundance, and reflection—perfect for connecting with the themes of Mabon:

• Thyme – Symbolizes courage and personal strength. A great herb for Mabon’s themes of balancing light and dark within ourselves.
• Lavender – Known for its calming, relaxing effects, lavender is ideal for Mabon rituals centred on inner peace and reflection.
• Sage – For cleansing and purifying energies, sage can be used to clear the way for the balance and renewal that Mabon brings.
• Oak – The oak tree is sacred to many Pagan traditions and is a symbol of strength and endurance. Oak leaves can be used in rituals to honour stability and balance.
• Apple – Apples are synonymous with the harvest and symbolize abundance and knowledge. You can use apple slices in your rituals or make apple offerings on your altar.

Honouring Mabon and the Autumn Equinox

The Autumn Equinox and Mabon are a time to reflect on the balance in our lives, to give thanks for the harvest, and to prepare for the quieter, more introspective months ahead. Through rituals, feasts, and the use of seasonal herbs, we can align with the energy of this special time, fostering balance, gratitude, and renewal. Whether you’re celebrating Mabon through a feast, a ritual, or by simply connecting with the energy of the season, this is a beautiful moment to honour the natural world’s cycle and your own journey.