NEGIN NIKNEJAD

Today's traditional holidays are observed by billions throughout the world, while the celebration of nature is only observed by a very small group of communities. Nature is a great ally and teacher and ought to be celebrated as one of the oldest and most fundamental aspects of being.

Holidays that are nature-related include the New Moon, Full Moon, Summer Solstice (or longest day of the year), Winter Solstice (or longest night of the year), Spring Equinox and Fall Equinox. Each of these events marks the beginning and end of a natural cycle that works harmoniously with every cell in our bodies, aiding and guiding us through life. In order to receive this guidance, we can tune in and create an awareness of the extraordinary forces behind nature.

Tuning in means taking a moment to say, “Hello!” and “Thank you!” to nature. City dwellers, who are typically removed from greenery and such, are especially well-served by honoring her in this way.

It is the simplest of gestures. We can take a moment during a full moon to bask in the glow. Or we can consciously allow ourselves to breathe in the new moon or even a new day. To celebrate nature is to celebrate life.

As if to confirm nature’s importance, just as I was writing this, Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata suddenly came on. Seasons Greetings!

Here is a guide for celestial rituals should you choose to honor nature:

1. New Moon

Helps us move through new intentions, new goals and new endeavors. This is a perfect time to start something new.

2. Full Moon

This magnificent force is a great ally that helps us move forward, tie up looseends, let go of attachment and manifest what we want in life. Sometimes I like to write down those things that no longer serve me and then burn the paper.

3. Spring Equinox

A time of rebirth, to celebrate life and our sensuality.

4. Summer Solstice

The longest day of the year and an intense time of renewal. This holiday is symbolic of light and also marks the advent of the darker days that lie ahead. A time to truly revel in the brightness in our lives.

5. Autumn Equinox

Symbolic of life and death, this is a time to let go, shed old skin and prepare for new growth.

6. Winter Solstice

This shortest day of the year reminds us that lighter days are ahead, as we look forward to celebrating the return of the sun!