Autumn Calls

It has come again the time that the leaves burn up, shrivelling inwards into delicate jewels of red and umber. Fields reawaken from the scorch of the summer sun, to briefly turn lush shades of green, awaiting the inevitable bite of frost. It is a time of short renewal and impending decay, eventually to be quieted by the endless sleep of winter's icy blanket.

Wrap up warm and take frequent walks, shuffle your feet through the fallen leaves and pay close attention to the crackling sounds. If you happen to catch one as they fall, this is a sign of a good luck call - to ward off headaches, colds and all. After these autumnal ambles, make yourself a bowl of warming soup. As you prepare, take care to check the layered skin of your onions - the thicker the translucent ring, the stronger winter's cold will sting.

Do not forget the mighty Conker, which falls from the Horse Chestnut tree, tucked away in a spiky shell. Either tie to a well wound string and play a game or two, or place above one's doorways to ward off spiders and the blues. If you are lucky enough to find three that shine too bright, keep them in your pocket for wealth for all your life!

The gentle Moon enters her third quarter, but by the twenty-first day of October, she will slip away. The New Moon brings balance, resting in the burnished scales of Libra, a time of quiet introspection and fresh beginnings. Under the quiet glow of this New Moon, take time to steady your mind and body, trust in your deepest intuitions and make sure to give only when your cup is full. You know yourself best when you are unafraid, despite good or bad, let nature guide its way.

So before the winter has begun, take time to revel in nature's last hurrah, before it goes to rest. Enjoy the fiery leaves, the swallows' final call… and happy, happy Autumn to you and to all!