Welcoming the Fall Equinox with Gratitude and Healing

As the fall equinox arrives, my daughter and I find ourselves under the weather. It's almost as if our bodies are signaling us to slow down, to mirror the natural world around us as it starts to rest and recharge for the colder months ahead. Together, with tissues in hand and our favorite TV shows on repeat (should I not admit that we are watching Schitt's Creek for the third time?), we are reminded of the quiet wisdom of the seasons.

This moment, though peppered with coughs and sneezes, is also one of reflection. As we sip warm tea and watch the leaves begin to change, I’m filled with gratitude for the healing preparations we made throughout the summer. From the kitchen experiments with organic apple cider vinegar and local raw honey to the infusions of healing herbs in organic potato vodka, these little rituals are now coming to life as they support our wellness.

In the coziness of our home, wrapped in blankets, I’m reminded of the connection between the seasons, our bodies, and the earth. The herbs we harvested and prepared were not just for days of plenty but for times like these—when our bodies need an extra boost, a reminder that nature is always here to support us.

Garlic-Infused Rose Hip Honey

This is a recipe that has become a favorite in our home. It's perfect for soothing sore throats and boosting the immune system. Rose hips are packed with vitamin C, and garlic brings its natural antibacterial properties to the table. Combined with local raw honey, this infusion is both medicinal and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup local raw honey

• 1 tablespoon dried rose hips (or fresh, if available)

• 3-4 garlic cloves, lightly crushed

  
  

Instructions:

1. In a clean jar, combine the honey, rose hips, and garlic.

2. Stir gently to make sure everything is well incorporated.

3. Seal the jar and let it sit for at least 2 weeks. The longer it sits, the stronger the infusion.

4. Strain out the garlic and rose hips, or leave them in for an even stronger taste and potency. The honey can be taken by the spoonful when needed, added to tea, or used to sweeten a warm drink.

Garlic Scape, Ginger & Cayenne Pepper Apple Cider Vinegar

This is our go-to for colds and congestion. It's full of ingredients that pack a punch—garlic, ginger, cayenne, and apple cider vinegar—each bringing its own unique benefits to the mix.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup organic apple cider vinegar

• 5 garlic cloves, lightly crushed

• 1 garlic scape (optional)

• 1-inch fresh ginger root, grated

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a glass jar.

2. Seal and shake well to combine.

3. Let the mixture sit for at least 2 weeks, shaking it every few days.

4. Strain the solids out and store the vinegar in a cool, dark place.

5. Use a tablespoon in a glass of warm water as a tonic, or add it to soups and stews for an extra immunity boost.

Elderberry Tea

Elderberries have long been used to fight off colds and flu. Making elderberry tea is simple, and it’s something my daughter and I enjoy sipping together as we watch the fall leaves drift down.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons dried elderberries

• 3 cups water

• A cinnamon stick (optional)

• A drizzle of raw honey to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine the elderberries and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil.

2. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.

3. Strain out the elderberries and add honey or a cinnamon stick if desired.

4. Sip slowly and enjoy the warmth.

As we ride out the colds that came with the changing of the seasons, I’m thankful for these remedies and for the time spent with my daughter preparing them. The fall equinox reminds me to find balance, to appreciate the cycles of life, and to take comfort in the simple, healing rituals we create together. Here’s to a season of rest, recovery, and, most importantly, gratitude.