Autumn Equinox is one of the four important solar terms in the 24 solar terms. The first day of the Autumn Equinox is documented in general geography or common geography books due to its particularly distinct characteristics.
So, what are the important characteristics of the first day of the Autumn Equinox? How will human life and energy fields change? What is the Autumn Equinox, and what does it signify? Let’s explore these questions in the article below.
Understanding the Concept of Autumn Equinox
The Autumn Equinox marks the mid-point of autumn.
The term “Equinox” means “division,” referring to a boundary, two equal points, or two balanced entities (for example, the bisector is a line that divides an angle into two equal angles), while “Autumn” refers to the season. More specifically, the Autumn Equinox is the period that represents the middle of autumn. This period is one of the two 24 solar terms observed annually.
When Does the Autumn Equinox Begin?
The Autumn Equinox starts on September 23 or 24 and ends on October 8 of the Gregorian calendar. On the first day of this solar term, the Sun is positioned at the celestial equator, 180 degrees longitude. During the Autumn Equinox, the Sun appears to move southward until it reaches the equator. At noon on the first day of the Autumn Equinox, the Sun forms a 90-degree angle with the tangent to the equator. In reality, the Earth orbits around the Sun, and at this time, neither hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun, resulting in equal amounts of heat, light, and daylight hours in both hemispheres. The duration of day and night is balanced, unlike previous periods. While the Northern Hemisphere experiences the Autumn Equinox, the Southern Hemisphere is in the middle of spring.
As the Sun moves southward during the Autumn Equinox, temperatures, light, and humidity continue to decrease in the Northern Hemisphere. The accumulated heat on Earth tends to dissipate to balance with the environment. This period witnesses a significant reduction in natural factors, leading to poor photosynthesis in plant life, and many species enter a dormant state, waiting for new opportunities.
The Autumn Equinox is the time when autumn characteristics are most distinct. The weather is sunny but not too hot, making it quite pleasant. In the evenings and nights, temperatures decrease slightly, and dew may appear.
At this time, many trees begin to shed their leaves. Foliage turns red or yellow, wilting and gradually falling. The ground becomes covered with a beautiful carpet of yellow leaves. Many plant species also disperse fruits, seeds, and spores during this time to sustain their lineage.
Animals take advantage of this period, while the weather is still warm, to gather food reserves. These reserves will help them survive through the long winter months. Some migratory species gradually move southward to escape the impending cold of winter.
According to the agricultural calendar, the Autumn Equinox marks the harvest time for rice crops. Previously, farmers would rest, leaving fields fallow until the winter crop season, but now, with advanced farming techniques, they can grow additional winter crops and vegetables.
In terms of weather, as the Autumn Equinox approaches, the atmosphere gradually shifts from hot to cold. Therefore, everyone should pay attention to their health. Particularly, the elderly and children need to keep warm and should not be complacent. It’s advisable to dress warmly, wear long sleeves, enhance nutrition, and exercise. Avoid late-night baths or cold showers to prevent colds and chills.
Starting from the Autumn Equinox, plants prepare to enter a state of “dormancy.” As a result, reproductive factors weaken, and the cold increases, leading to a predominance of yin energy.
According to the agricultural calendar, the Autumn Equinox is the harvest time for rice crops.
In terms of feng shui, individuals associated with the Metal element during the Autumn Equinox can achieve significant progress, work tends to succeed, and their spirits remain stable, gradually reaping rewards. Conversely, those with a Metal destiny should be a bit more cautious as they may experience minor negative impacts on their wealth and health, though not severely.
Moreover, the Autumn Equinox falls in the month of the Rooster according to the lunar calendar. People born during this period often possess a cool, strong, and resilient personality. They tend to be more introverted and do not like to share much about their private lives.
Overall, the Autumn Equinox remains a favorable time, suitable for undertaking significant endeavors; relationships flourish, life is abundant, and good fortune is plentiful.
Notable Festivals During the Autumn Equinox
Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam and China: In Vietnam and China, the Autumn Equinox occurs near the end of the year, with pleasant and cool weather suitable for outdoor activities. One of the major festivals that cannot be overlooked is the Mid-Autumn Festival, symbolizing reunion and family gatherings. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, people often organize various entertaining activities such as lion dances, dragon dances, fireworks, and lantern parades. Families tend to come together to enjoy mooncakes, admire the moon, and share conversations.
Family Reunion and Grave Visiting in Japan: The Autumn Equinox is an official holiday in Japan. It is celebrated as a traditional festival when people from afar return to reunite with their families and visit the graves of their loved ones.
Harvest Festival in Europe and America: During the Autumn Equinox, people pray for bountiful harvests and good wishes for everyone. Residents of European and American countries often celebrate the festival known as “Harvest Festival”, while in England, it is also referred to as “Harvest Moon Day.”
