Rust, red, yellow, crimson, ochre, ginger and burgundy, are the colours of Autumn. These colours symbolise this season, a transitional period.
The trees burst with colour, vibrant energy and life, but this is short-lived as we see a mosaic of coloured leaves scatter, a dance, the wind is the conductor. What sound do fallen leaves make as they are blown across the ground?
What can we learn when we ‘notice’ this annual ritual displayed in full by ‘Mother Nature’? The leaves symbolise decay, a dying, it can also conjure grief and loss, an end to a life cycle.
When the leaves fall from the trees, it tells us of a time of change. Trees let go from holding on, a release of the old. The trees are left exposed in preparation for Winter. We know it is a time of release and surrender, a downward movement.
Perhaps the changes that occur in this season are the most profound. Providing us space, an opportunity to reflect and observe. It is also a good time to clear out things we do not need. Release the old, take what we need within and plan for the seasons ahead, allowing for an opening of what is yet to come.
Follow the clues of Autumn, let go and surrender. Then we are free to sleep well into Winter whilst new shoots form in readiness for Spring.
Research indicates that before the 16th Century, “Harvest”, Aki 秋 in Japanese Kanji, means ‘grain fire’ harvest. A season to harvest, reap, gather and collect our “learning’ from the year. The season is called Autumn and Fall ( Western reference).