Vernal Equinox – What Does it Mean?

The Spring Equinox represents more than just the first day of Spring. This is a time to celebrate the new. Another name for this day is Vernal Equinox, and is marked when the sun moves into Aries. This special day may occur on either the 20th or 21st of March every year.

For 2010, the focus on Mother Earth is amplified by the moon sign that occupiesTaurus – a sign of the earth.

The hours of sunlight and nighttime are almost equal on the first day of Spring. At this time, the earth begins moving the northern hemisphere to warmer weather. The southern hemisphere heads toward cooler weather.

Many cultural celebrations preserve customs dating back to Medieval times where rituals of worshiping Mother Earth earmarked the first day of Spring. An example of one ritual is to plant beans and say a prayer once they have been placed in the ground.

While modern events take place around the world, equinox parties on this marker day still encompass a spiritual meaning. The focus of the get-togethers puts an emphasis on the beauty of spring, the earth, and emerging visibility of the sun.

Mostly celebrated in the Northern Hemispheres, the ancient observance of the first day of spring joins people together in gratitude and hopes for the future.

Other themes of celebration are couched in terms of new life, idealism, naivete, hope, optimism, innocence and purity. With Easter following in direct procession, the symbolism of the egg and fertility comes to the forefront.

The death and resurrection of Jesus follows through with the same themes of rebirth and new life.

During winter, death of living things is reinforced with the bareness of a snow covered earth. As newness emerges, plants are sprouting, crocus blooms pop up in the last vestiges of winter.

Astrologically, the equinox is considered to be the first day of the new year.

The ancient Gregorian calendar starts on this day. Iranian and Bahai calendars also begin the first day of the year at the time of the vernal equinox.

Writings of Cicero hark to the special significance of the equinox dating back to pre civilization times. Ancient festivals focused on the planet Mars, which is the rulership of Aries, and is also the root word for March.

Astrological advice for the first day of the new season always recommends making an effort to have a peaceful day. Setting aside time for meditation and introspection has special significance on the first day of Spring.

Though intangible, the first day of Spring sets the atmosphere of life for the next three months.

The worst event that could happen on the first day of Spring would be an argument or unpleasant exchange. As above, so below” is an old saying that refers to the powerful symbolism of a seed germinating in the ground. If the first day of spring is dominated with ill feelings, they will remain or continue to grow, so be sure to make it a special day one way or another.

Astrology on the Web: The Equinoxes

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Equinox Celebration – LoveToKnow Party