Welcome to the day of the Autumn Equinox. Today is the day where the sun crosses the equator and those of us living in the Northern Hemisphere will begin to see more darkness than daylight. The hours of daylight between sunrise and sunset have been growing shorter each day since the Summer solstice.
I’ve grown up celebrating this season change with family and friends. We would gather to share hearty food and drinks and some of us would plant herbs, set intentions and gratitudes. Once again, my love for gathering as community and family is so marked by these beautiful changes of season.
On this Monday of equal light and dark I’m diffusing cassia and pink pepper. Along with their spicy and Autumn-inspired aroma these oils come with powerful intention.
Cassia, a cousin of cinnamon, encourages confidence and authentic expression. Experimental research suggests that internal use of Cinnamaldehyde, a major constituent of Cassia, may support a healthy gastrointestinal tract. Cassia is a great oil to diffuse during cold months due to its warming properties and spicy scent. Use a little caution with this oil, it’s known as a SPICY oil for a reason and it can feel “hot” or even “itchy” if used on the skin without dilution with oil.
Pink pepper, the oil which represents intrinsic equality and inspires compassion. The “molle,” or pink peppercorn tree, was considered a sacred tree to ancient Incans. Indigenous populations used all parts of the tree, including the pink peppercorn fruit, as herbal solutions to health needs. Limonene and alpha-phellandrene, two of the main chemical components of Pink Pepper essential oil, may be calming to the nervous system when consumed. Additionally, Limonene may help support healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels already in the normal range when taken internally.
In addition to a beautifully led 108 practice yesterday, one of my rituals at the Autumn Equinox is to write out my goals, dreams and intentions for the end of the year (well until the winter solstice). To enjoy this blend in your diffuser add 4 drops pink pepper and 1-2 drops of cassia.