There is something about autumn that appeals to many witches. As the nights get darker and the veil gets thinner, we become more attuned to the other side. There is also something quite magical and mystical about it.

Yet autumn is not all golden leaves and crisp air. The slowing of nature, cooler temperatures, and shorter days can leave many of us with a dip in mood or lower energy. For some, this can be more pronounced and may even be related to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Feeling slower, less motivated, or more introspective is a natural response to the changing season. I absolutely adore autumn, but I notice shifts in my mood. How you respond to these feelings and make space for yourself is important. Gently observe your mood, honour what you need, and allow yourself the time and care to move through the season at your own pace

Please remember,If you are feeling particularly low or just need to talk, it is important that you see a health professional. However, there are a few ways you can help yourself.

Staying Connected to Your Craft

To keep your magic vibrant during autumn:

• Establish a daily ritual, even if brief, to ground yourself in your craft. A few minutes each day can create consistency and stability.
• Create an autumn-themed altar to focus your energies and intentions. Incorporate natural elements like leaves, berries, and twigs.
• Spend time in nature, observing the subtle seasonal changes and drawing inspiration from them. Let the falling leaves remind you that release is part of life.
• Listen to yourself and face your fears. The darker energies of autumn can bring up hidden thoughts or anxieties—acknowledge them rather than suppressing them.

Working with Autumn’s Energies

Autumn can be overwhelming, but there are ways to stay centred:

• Grounding exercises: Regular grounding helps keep your energy steady.
• Cleansing rituals: Use baths, smudging, or home-cleansing rituals to refresh your space and your energy.
• Journaling: Set aside weekly time to write down your thoughts and feelings. Shadow work, especially near Samhain, can deepen your understanding of yourself. Keep your journal close at night to capture restless thoughts before they settle into worry.

Supporting Your Mood

Alongside magic, it’s important to care for your mind and body:

• Light as magic: Seek out natural light whenever possible. Even a short walk can make a difference.
• Movement as ritual: Gentle movement,walking, stretching, yoga, or dancing, helps shift stagnant energy and uplift your mood.
• Herbal allies: Teas like chamomile or lemon balm can soothe the spirit. Check for personal safety and interactions.
• Community connection: This time of year, social connection and community are especially important. Reach out to friends, or online circles, sharing space, conversation, or simple check-ins can help lift your energy and keep you grounded during the darker months.

Remember, it’s okay to feel a dip in mood. Autumn invites us to honour these cycles, resting and reflecting as nature does.

Learning is lifelong.

It is so easy to sit down in front of the TV, night after night. Our souls and brains need more to feed on. Find out what feeds you. You may choose to read more; see our recommended reads here. You may wish to take on a new hobby, such as drawing or needlework.

The darker evenings are a great time to learn something new or gain a new skill. There are plenty of courses out there that will allow you to work at your own pace.

Preparing for Winter’s Introspection

Autumn is a good time to begin a meditation practice to cultivate inner stillness and to declutter both your physical and spiritual spaces, making room for new insights. Starting a dream journal can help you tap into your subconscious as the veil thins, while divination rituals may bring clarity on your path forward. Stay in tune with nature, even if only for a short walk each day, noticing the seasonal changes.

Autumn is also a season for reflection. Pay attention to areas of your life that no longer feel balanced or nourishing. Perhaps there’s a friendship that feels one-sided, or a habit that no longer serves you. Simply noticing these things allows you to begin gently shifting your energy toward what truly supports you.

I highly recommend the Pagan Portals books. Take a look here

Celtic Cauldron: Rituals for self-care and manifestation Hardcover, by Nicola McIntosh

*Disclaimer: The advice in this article is for information only and should not replace medical care. Check with your GP or healthcare professional before trying any remedies