Welcoming the Spring Equinox
As the days grow longer and nights grow shorter, we will soon welcome the Spring Equinox on Thursday, March 20, 2025. This will be the official start of spring in the northern hemisphere - a time when the Earth is perpendicular to the sun, and the sun shines directly over the equator. For centuries, cultures around the world have recognized this celestial event, celebrating with rituals that honor the Earth’s awakening and the new season ahead.
background
The word “equinox” stems from aequus and nox, the Latin words for “equal” and “night,” signifying a time when day and night are nearly equal in length. However, due to the way sunlight bends in Earth's atmosphere and the sun’s size, daylight still slightly exceeds nighttime. This phenomenon reminds us that even in moments of balance, nature moves dynamically.
Cultural Celebrations of the Equinox
For the ancient Mayan civilization, the Spring Equinox was seen as an event of great agricultural and spiritual significance. It honored Kukulcán, the feathered serpent god who symbolized rejuvenation and the renewal of life. At El Castillo, a Mayan built pyramid in present day Chichén Itzá, the sun’s rays create the visual illusion of a serpent descending down the northern staircase of the temple every equinox. This event attracts thousands of visitors every year from around the world.
Another event of important cultural significance tied to the equinox is Norwruz, the Persion New Year. Nowruz celebrates rebirth and the triumph of light over darkness. It is observed with feasts, house cleaning, and the setting of a Haft-Seen table with symbolic items representing renewal and prosperity. Rooted in the Zoroastrian tradition, it is celebrated in many places around the world today including Iran, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, and beyond.
regenerative practices for the spring
The Spring Equinox is an invitation to align with nature’s rhythms and embrace regenerative practices that help restore the Earth. At Take MAR, we believe in fostering a world where communities and the environment thrive in harmony, creating balance and well-being for all. Here are ways you can celebrate while making a positive impact:
Plant Native Trees & Flowers – Support pollinators like bees and butterflies by growing native plants, which require less water and support biodiversity.
Reduce Plastic Use – Swap single-use plastics for reusable bags, water bottles, and containers to reduce pollution.
Donate to Make a Difference – Support Take MAR by contributing to our environmental restoration and community engagement initiatives. Your donation helps create a greener, more sustainable future!
This season, let’s take a step forward in restoring balance—not just in our lives, but in the world around us.