Last Updated on April 9, 2025 by Karis Tavernier-Nicholas
For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, trees are slowly regaining green leaves, bluebells and snowdrops are emerging and we’re becoming (mostly) acquainted with the sun again. The signs of spring are all around us, and, reflecting this, the spring equinox on 20th March 2025 is fast approaching.
What is the Spring Equinox?
The spring equinox occurs when the sun passes the equator, and is when day and night are more or less equal in length, about 12 hours each. The equinox typically occurs on either 20th or 21st of March every year in the Northern Hemisphere, and differs from the dates of meteorological spring which starts from 1st March to 31st May every year.
The equinox has been explained in various ways for hundreds of years. For instance, in Greek mythology, the spring equinox is linked to the story of Hades and Persephone. Hades abducts Persephone to live with him in the Underworld, much to the anguish of her mother Demeter, the goddess of fertility. When Demeter, in her anger, causes the earth to become barren, Zeus makes a deal with Hades: Persephone would spend half of the year with him in the Underworld during which time the earth is barren and cold (autumn and winter), and the other half of the year she would re-emerge in the world which will bloom once more (spring and summer).
Rituals to do for the Spring Equinox
Autumn and winter offered a time for hiding away, stillness, readying ourselves for emerging during this new season of light. Here are some things to do to welcome the arrival of the spring equinox:
Plant
Spring is the perfect time to plant, whether that’s new blossoms in the garden or planting seeds of fruits and vegetables, ready to harvest later in the year.
Set New Intentions
Similar to New Year’s resolutions, set intentions for what you’d like to welcome into your life. Astrologically, it’s the start of a new year, so it’s a great time for new beginnings.
Connect With Nature
With the weather (usually) only improving, spending time outdoors is a great way to mark the arrival of spring. Whether you’re going for a hike or a stroll around the park, observing the signs of spring is a great way to honour the equinox.
Sage Your Space
Cleanse your home by burning sage, welcoming new, positive energy.
Spring Clean
Many usually undergo a deep clean of their homes during this period. It’s a fantastic way of making room for new energy to circulate as well as decluttering.
