The fall equinox (also known as the pagan and Wiccan celebration of the holiday Mabon) in the Northern Hemisphere kicks off on September 22 at 8:05 p.m. Eastern Time, the same day as the Sun’s entrance into Libra, which brings equal day and night hours. A crisp chill in the air, homecoming parties, amber sunsets that serenade the soul at golden hour, and whimsical decor warm the ambiance.

“The equinox is a moment when light and darkness are held in equal measure, and I think there’s something beautiful about taking that balance personally,” says Corbin Chamberlin, owner of Sage and Salt fragrances. “It’s a natural point to look at what has grown, what has run its course, and what you actually want to carry with you into the next season. I think of autumn as an energetic edit: keep what feels aligned, release what doesn’t, and make space for what comes next.”

Chamberlin suggests the following manifestation: “Burn two candles and take a sheet of paper, dividing it in half. On one side, write down what you want to carry with you into the next season: the relationships, habits, ideas, and parts of yourself that feel worth tending. On the other, write down what has run its course. Burn the second list safely, then keep the first somewhere you’ll see it through the season. It’s less about manifesting something new and more about making a conscious edit before moving forward.”

This season’s astrology is intense, but we can still survive and thrive. Venus retrograde in Scorpio and Libra lasts from October 3 to November 13, and asks us to decipher who and what respects and esteems us (and vice versa). If a relationship deserves saving, we’ll decide whether it merits the effort.

Mercury’s moonwalk in Scorpio from October 24 to November 13 brings ghosts back into our lives, allowing us to resolve former issues—only if it is emotionally safe for us and others. Words can cut deeply from Mercury’s moonwalk in Scorpio, so be cognizant of their ability to contribute to already fraught and tense situations. It’s not all doom and gloom, however. Retrogrades mend problems, so we must revise, redirect, and reassess dynamics to heal. Also, Jupiter’s presence on the South Node of Destiny this November 12 promises a fortunate outcome.

The stars are testing our perseverance, but we are doing the best we can with the information at hand. The most important connection is the one we have with ourselves. Treating oneself with compassion, dignity, and forgiveness is vital.

Read your fall equinox horoscope below.

Aries

It’s easy to get caught up with someone else when the Sun shines its light on the sector of your chart that rules partnerships. However, the right individual will make sure that you’re not just giving tenderness and love to them; they’ll encourage you to focus on yourself as well—maybe even more so. Fall for yourself this season.

Taurus

Routines confirm your devotion to improving your aura. With every bath, Pilates class, morning coffee walk, and eye cream, you put your needs first. Cherish rituals as acts of self-care. Every time you do one of these daily ceremonies, you are telling the universe how fabulous you are—now, say it out loud and honor your practice.

Gemini

Your brilliant creative mind positions you at the center of the cosmos—or so it feels. At this moment, you’ll be able to understand how you can pursue the gifts that come naturally to you, such as writing, design, art, singing, and the rapport you seek with those who are intellectually stimulating. The world is your oyster!