Embracing the Spirit of Mabon
As we enter the season of Mabon, I notice certain things more than others. The sound of leaves crunching underfoot as I walk, nature ablaze with colour, and the scent of fresh earth after rainfall when the wind picks up. These are the signs of Mabon.
Mabon, otherwise known as the Autumn Equinox, is a seasonal transition, an astronomical shift from summer to autumn. It is the time when the rhythm of the Earth is in perfect equilibrium, meaning day and night are in balance, before we descend into the darker half of the year. Celebrated as the second harvest festival of the Wheel of the Year, Mabon is an important time to take stock of our lives and transition into the new chapter. This year, Mabon is celebrated on September 22nd.
Prepare for Introspection
Mabon celebrates the sacred balance between light and dark, as we appreciate the sun’s waning power, and we transition into the darker half of the year. I like to think of this transition as a wonderful opportunity to draw inwards, prepare for introspection and begin preparing for a winter hibernation. It is a time of great harmony and invites us to seek balance between growth and release as we pause and reflect on all we have achieved so far this year. Remind yourself that the mistakes you made during the sunshine months were simply lessons to be learned from and an opportunity to grow.
From Within featuring Vera Cruz
The Turning of the Wheel
As many of you know, I spend a lot of time in nature throughout the year, but it is this point in the turning of the Wheel that I find myself most mindful. As I take each step, I try to observe the changes around me, as the new season takes hold and weathers the landscape into new patterns and shapes. From the changing of the leaves to the early sunsets, I love seeking colour, and I look for it all around me. I see the colours of nature as a way to brighten up the darker season.
This sabbat is a time to pause, reflect, and give reverence to the Earth for the abundant offerings we receive. As the second harvest festival of the year, Mabon invites us to gather the Earth’s final offerings - fruits, nuts and late vegetables. Yet beyond the physical harvest lies an inner one, calling us to release, reflect and realign.
Tarot Card Collection featuring the Wheel of the Year
Symbolism in Nature
Nature is abundant with examples of the skills we need to take into a new season, helping us transition with the Earth.
Take the Stag, for example.
This majestic creature symbolises strength and resilience, reminding us to move forward with grace. As he sheds his antlers, he calls forth the quiet urge to let go, to release what no longer serves us and to move on – unburdened. A master of conservation, he slows his pace but does not stop. Even in the coldest months, the stag remains active, foraging where he can, embodying quiet endurance and steady presence.
Now consider the watchful owl.
As the guardian of insight, she gently encourages us to turn inward - guided by intuition, anchored in inner truth. While the world around us fades into shadow, the owl remains steady, a quiet, ever-watchful presence in the dark. Tenderly, the owl teaches us to trust in the stillness – to be precise in our decisions and to act with clarity.
Lastly, the raven.
The dark raven is a powerful symbol of transition, guiding us through the gentle process of letting go and making space for renewal and growth. Known for their intelligent and observant nature, Ravens are adaptable and are a striking presence in autumn, as they command attention, atop bare autumn trees, observing their environment from up high, with a cautious but steady eye.
In mythology, they are considered messengers between worlds and seen to represent the cycle of life and rebirth. Part of nature's dance, they remind us that what passes soon becomes vital nourishment for what is to come.
Wrapped in his dark, midnight cloak, the raven teaches us that letting go is necessary for growth, guiding us through endings and offering a sacred release. The raven suggests that there is strength in surrender.
Crystal Balls
Mabon Traditions
There are many traditions at this time of year which tie into the core themes of the sabbat - abundance, gratitude and preparation. From making music to partaking in a communal feast - Mabon has many ways to celebrate!
One of my favourite ways to rejoice in this season is to be at one with nature. I always find that I am more attuned to the world around me, as it starts to slow down. The quiet fall of leaves feels like a whisper from nature, inviting me to pause and observe the changes around me.
Each year, I gather apples, which are abundant where I live, and I make a delicious apple compote, pie or crumble to share with my family by the warmth of an indoor fire. Cooking can be a beautiful ritual as we stir love and intentions into each stage of baking. Traditional recipes were believed to possess hidden magic, such as pumpkin pie for protection and apple pie for love. It is a humble feeling to share these meals with loved ones, knowing that you have stirred love and protection into every scoop.
As we step inside and spend more time indoors, I enjoy creating smudge sticks from foraged herbs to cleanse my home. There is something deeply comforting about this ritual as we clear away the cobwebs, declutter and renew the space. It helps the home feel like a warm and welcome place to be, full of peace and intention.
Falling Leaves featuring Citrine
The Mabon Altar
As we turn the Wheel another notch, we honour the step into a new season with the Sabbat Altar. I begin by gathering offerings from the Earth, acorns, oak leaves and sticks, as well as dried apples from my baking – these tokens remind me to stay grounded with nature. While I converse with nature, I seek the colours of autumn – red, brown, yellow and orange – to brighten my sacred space, as we prepare for the darker half of the year.
To represent Mabon being a season of balance, I place a sun and moon charm, as well as one black and one white candle, to represent day and night. Further symbols of balance can include scales or a Libra zodiac charm.
For a personal connection, I may include photographs of my loved ones who have passed, trinkets from ancestors and crystals. These items help me remember what is important as we transition into a new season.
Of course, I always keep my journal nearby and make a habit of writing the things that have happened during my day, which I am thankful for – to embrace change and acknowledge personal growth.
Crystals for Mabon
Crystals are always an important aspect of a Sabbat altar, and with Mabon, I tend to focus on crystals for energy, joy and abundance.
Citrine
This beautiful crystal is full of creativity, luck, abundance and energy. I place citrine at the heart of my table to encourage more happiness and confidence as I step into the season. She has a primary mission of helping us reach our goals and encourages us to let go of old beliefs and feelings that no longer serve us. Widely known as a ‘merchant’s stone’, she is associated with wealth and manifestation, reminding us to be thankful for the blessings we have gathered throughout the year.
Like a little dose of vitamin D, Citrines radiating glow, will uplift your spirit, boost your self-worth, enhance your self-esteem and bring optimism into your day.
Citrine, holding the last golden glow of the summer sun, is the perfect stone to have anywhere in your home.
Carnelian Crystal Ball
Carnelian
The stone of energy, confidence, creativity and vitality. I use Carnelian to boost my creativity and focus, and I find her especially useful when my creativity starts to wane. Mirroring the colour of fallen leaves, this deep orange crystal will light the fire underneath us, bringing passion and strength in all that we do.
She is a stone of transition and will help us move forward on our path. Her beautiful hue will uplift the soul, giving the motivational energy we need during the darker months ahead. Carnelian brings out our sociable side and will help communicate with truth and clarity, which is perfect for communal celebrations during the season of Mabon.
I use Carnelian all around the home to keep emotions balanced. Her warm, nurturing energy helps me stay grounded in the present moment and focus on what is important.