I don’t know about you, but lately I’ve been feeling a subtle shift, more tired some days, a little restless on others, and oddly reflective all at once. It’s that in-between feeling… and it turns out, it’s not just in our heads.
We’ve entered the equinox. And there’s something quietly powerful about it. It arrives without much fanfare. No countdown, no decorations, yet it marks one of the most meaningful transitions of the year. Twice annually, during the spring and fall equinox, day and night are almost perfectly equal. A moment of balance… before everything begins to shift again.
And if you’ve been feeling a little “off” lately, more tired, more reflective, maybe even a bit restless, you’re not imagining it. Your body and mind are responding to this seasonal change.
What Happens During the Equinox?
Scientifically, the equinox occurs when the sun crosses the celestial equator, creating nearly equal daylight and darkness across the globe.
But beyond the science, it’s often seen as a symbolic reset:
- Spring equinox = renewal, growth, new beginnings
- Fall equinox = reflection, slowing down, letting go
Our bodies are deeply connected to light. Changes in daylight affect our circadian rhythm (our internal clock), which influences sleep, mood, and energy levels.
How It Affects Mood and Sleep
You may notice:
- Feeling more tired (especially in early spring or fall)
- Changes in sleep patterns
- A dip or lift in mood
- A desire to either do more (spring) or slow down (fall)
According to the Sleep Foundation, even small changes in daylight can shift melatonin production, the hormone responsible for sleep. That’s why you might feel like going to bed earlier… or struggling to wake up.
Helpful read:
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/circadian-rhythm
There’s also a connection to mood. Reduced sunlight in fall can contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), while increasing light in spring can boost serotonin levels, helping you feel more energized and optimistic.
Helpful read:
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/seasonal-affective-disorder
The Emotional Shift: Why We Feel It So Deeply
Beyond biology, the equinox often brings an emotional nudge.
In spring, there’s a sense of possibility. You might feel the urge to:
- Start something new
- Revisit goals
- Get outside more
- Reconnect with others
In fall, the energy softens. It becomes more about:
- Reflecting on where you’ve been
- Letting go of what no longer fits
- Creating cozy routines
- Turning inward
Neither is better. They’re simply different phases of the same cycle.
How to Move With the Season (Not Against It)
Instead of pushing through, this is a beautiful time to gently realign.
Try:
- Getting outside daily (natural light helps regulate mood and sleep)
- Adjusting your routine (earlier nights or slower mornings)
- Creating small rituals (tea, journaling, stretching, quiet time)
- Letting go of pressure to “feel productive” all the time
Helpful read: https://www.healthline.com/health/circadian-rhythm
A Gentle Reminder
The equinox reminds us that life isn’t meant to stay the same. There are seasons for growth… and seasons for rest. For energy… and for stillness.
And maybe the real invitation here isn’t to resist the change, but to lean into it.
To notice how you feel.
To adjust, rather than push.
To begin again or to gently pause.
Because just like the seasons… we’re always evolving too.
